A Distressed Rahila Harms Herself

Rahila shows us her arm

A few days ago, we received a distress call from the hospital where survivor Rahila (rescued from Kolkata in November 2023) is being treated for tuberculosis. Apparently, Rahila called her mother and asked her to bring her some clothes from her friend's house, but her mother refused. In exasperation, Rahila cut herself multiple times.

Social worker Shelly visited Rahila at the hospital. Rahila was visibly distraught and showed her arm to Shelly, but Rahila would not disclose what she used to cut herself. The doctor examined Rahila’s arm, and although he was preparing to discharge her after her long recovery, he decided against this due to her outburst and injury. Rahila was increasingly upset at this news; she promised to never repeat this behavior and begged to return home. Shelly reassured Rahila that she would only need to stay in the hospital for a few more days.

After she is released from the hospital, Rahila will give her 161 Statement and First Information Report, which outline the crimes she endured. (Rahila was admitted to the hospital for tuberculosis very shortly after her rescue, and the police agreed to complete her paperwork after she recovers.) These two reports are essential in order to ensure that her offenders remain behind bars and to begin Rahila's compensation process.

Aggression is a common symptom for victims of sexual abuse. Our social workers are trained in identifying and responding to this trauma, and we make every effort to support survivors and connect them with a therapist who can assist in their healing journey.