Sunita Danuwar, a prominent activist against human trafficking and the chairperson of Shakti Samuha, passed away. Her lifeless body was discovered on Monday morning at her residence in Jorpati, Kathmandu, Nepal, according to information provided by her family.
Danuwar’s husband found her unconscious while trying to wake her up in the morning. She was rushed to Nepal Medical College in Jorpati, where doctors declared her dead. The cause of her death is yet to be determined. Danuwar is survived by her husband, a son, and a daughter.
In 2018, Sunita Danuwar was listed among the world’s 50 greatest leaders by Fortune magazine. She was also recognized as a “Hero” by the U.S. government for her courageous fight against human trafficking and modern slavery. The U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu issued a statement mourning her loss, saying:
“We are deeply saddened to hear about Sunita Danuwar passing away. Sunita fought valiantly against human trafficking, transforming herself from survivor to a globally recognized anti-TIP advocate and leader. The recognition she received as a “2018 U.S. Department of State TIP Hero” and Fortune Magazine’s World’s 50 Greatest Leaders are a testament to the profound impact she has had in the global anti-TIP movement.Her loss will reverberate not only amongst her family and friends, but be remembered as a significant loss for the overall movement and the greater Nepali community she set out to protect. Our heartfelt condolences to her loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”
Born in Dailekh as the youngest of ten siblings, only four of whom survived, Danuwar’s family moved to Jammu and Kashmir, India, due to superstitious beliefs following repeated family tragedies. They started potato and apple farming there.
However, at the age of 13, Danuwar faced unimaginable challenges. Left alone at home one day, she was raped by a 37-year-old man. Her life changed dramatically when she became pregnant as a result of the assault. With limited support and immense societal rejection, she bore her child while grappling with extreme poverty.
Danuwar’s life took another dark turn when her family was deceived by two men who offered help. The two tractor drivers drugged Danuwar’s food, causing her to lose consciousness. They sold her to a brothel in Mumbai for 40,000 Indian rupees(approximately $480 USD at current exchange rates), where she suffered horrific abuse, including gang rape at the age of 14. Furthermore, her infant son was taken from her.
Years later, in 1995, she was rescued by Mumbai police and repatriated to Nepal. However, reintegration into society was arduous, as she faced stigma and rejection.
Danuwar co-founded Shakti Samuha, an organization established by trafficking survivors, focusing on empowering women and combating human trafficking. Her relentless activism brought her international acclaim, making her a symbol of courage and resilience.
Susan Shrestha
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