Sampat Pal Devi started the Gulabi Gang group in the Banda district of Uttar Pradesh in the year 2006. The purpose of the gang is to bring equality by addressing the issues of gender and caste oppression.
In the year 2006, Sampat Pal Devi started the Gulabi Gang group in the Banda district of Uttar Pradesh. The initiative was launched to promote women’s rights and raise awareness about domestic violence. Since 2006, this organization has evolved into one of the most prominent organizations in India that advocates for gender quality.
Story of Sampat Pal Devi
Sampat Pal Devi was married off at the young age of 12 to a middle-aged vegetable seller. Her married life was marked with challenges and hardships. Her life took a significant turn when she offered water to a Harijan family in the village. On several occasions, she noticed people discriminating against people of lower castes. When she raised her voice against the injustice, she faced severe repercussions. The village Panchayat removed her from the community. She left her in-laws’ home but remained resolute in her determination to advocate for the rights of the oppressed.
Gulabi Gang
Once, Sampat witnessed a man physically assaulting his wife. She tried to intervene to stop the violence, but the others did not let her take any action. This was the incident that led her to do something significant. She gathered five women and confronted the man to teach him a lesson. This pivotal moment marked the birth of the Gulabi Gang.
Women’s rights
Gulabi Gang began advocating for women’s rights and addressed the various forms of atrocities against women. The group fearlessly confronted injustices whether in the society or families. They believed that everything was political, and one needed to fight for one’s justice. The aim was to make women aware about the oppression and discrimination.
The pink attire
Gulabi Gang is like a formidable force in society. On various occasions, they directly confront the authorities, and organize rallies to support the victims. They can be recognized by their trademark attire, which includes wearing pink sarees and carrying a lathi (stick). The colour pink symbolizes their solidarity and their determination to empower women.
Supporting women
Gulabi Gang also extends support to girls from underprivileged backgrounds. They organize their wedding ceremonies. They arrange flowers, apply mehndi (henna), and provide makeup services. A large population of women still live in disadvantaged positions due to the lack of opportunities. The purpose of the Gulabi Gang is to bring gender equality by addressing the issues of gender and caste oppression.
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