Sanchi's Justice and Restoration

Sanchi with her baby, husband, and supplies from our social workers

Our social worker, Archana, first met Sanchi at a One Stop Centre (temporary shelter) in July 2020 when she was 13 years old. Sanchi shared her story with Archana. 

When Sanchi was 12-years-old, she was kidnapped and raped repeatedly by two men. A few weeks later she discovered that she was pregnant. When her captors learned of her pregnancy, they decided to sell Sanchi. In July 2020, her captors brought her to Neemuch. When they stopped for a meal at a restaurant, Sanchi managed to flee from her captors. She went straight to the nearest police station in Neemuch and told the police about the men who had sexually exploited her and were planning to sell her because she was pregnant. The police filed a First Information Report and arrested the two men. Four months into her pregnancy, Sanchi had an abortion as directed by the government doctors and shelter home authorities.

While in the shelter home, Sanchi battled nightmares. Our social workers, who were conducting life skills sessions in her shelter home, counselled and met Sanchi regularly.

Upon returning to her father’s home in 2023, Sanchi faced continual threats from one of the accused who had been released on medical bail.

Despite her fear of the police (due to previous mistreatment by an officer) and threats from the accused, Sanchi continued to stand her ground. Our social workers stood by her during this hard time, offering their support. 

Fearing for her safety, Sanchi's father arranged her marriage. She continued to attend court hearings with the help of her father and advocates. Our legal team presented strong evidence in her case.

On September 27, 2025, the legal battle concluded with both the accused being sentenced to life in prison. Sanchi received compensation of $1022.

Throughout her journey, our social workers counselled and encouraged Sanchi.

On April 10, social workers Sheena and Mamta visited Morvan, Madhya Pradesh, for a follow-up with Sanchi. Sanchi is married, and her husband works as a daily-wage laborer. They have a nine-month-old baby boy.

Sanchi was happy to meet our social workers. Sheena and Mamta gave Sanchi some provisions for her home and clothes for her baby.

We are grateful to see Sanchi doing well and finding joy in her family, especially in her little boy who brings much delight into their lives. Sanchi has safely reintegrated into her community and is living a stable life with her family.