Together, change is possible

Maria Fernandes | NT

For advocate Varsha Deshpande, women’s empowerment, human rights and social justice are non-negotiable pillars of equality. She discussed these ideals on The Navhind Times talk show ‘Talk from the Heart’ which aired recently on the Goa 365 channel.

Deshpande shared how her journey into activism was shaped by her upbringing, personal experiences, and unwavering commitment to justice. Raised in a middle-class family in Berga, Maharashtra, she grew up with values of education, social responsibility, and community service. “My parents always impressed upon me that learning and serving the community go hand in hand,” she recalled. College cultural activities and stage performances further sparked her engagement with social issues.

A defining moment came with her inter-caste marriage which was opposed by her family. “I refused to hide or compromise, it had to be celebrated openly,” she said. Her move to Satara after marriage was the beginning of her lifelong work in women’s rights.

During her interactions with women she witnessed the structural barriers restricting their autonomy. Her work with the National Service Scheme (NSS) further revealed persistent disadvantages faced by rural women. “I realised that education alone cannot empower women. They need legal knowledge, practical skills and support systems to claim their rights,” she emphasised.

Encouraged by her husband, Deshpande pursued a law degree while teaching English. Even before graduating, she set up a free legal aid centre in Satara. One of her first initiatives mobilised nearly 200 ‘deserted’ women across Maharashtra to demand maintenance, children’s education, and legal recognition; a landmark early step in her activism. Working closely with women facing systemic hardships, she identified alcohol abuse as a major cause of domestic violence and family breakdowns. She organised campaigns through the Gram Sabha, securing resolutions to shut illegal liquor shops and when challenged in higher courts, won landmark judgments reinforcing community power and democratic rights.

Recognising that legal aid alone was insufficient, she stressed holistic support; shelter, vocational training, healthcare, counselling and economic opportunities. “Empowerment is not just a legal battle; it’s about creating spaces where women can rebuild their lives,” she said. Her organisation established short-stay homes, skills programmes and mobile legal clinics for migrant and marginalised communities, blending legal and socio-economic support to restore women’s confidence and independence.

Among her notable campaigns was the fight against gender-biased sex selection and sex-selective abortions. Through decoy operations and legal interventions, she exposed illegal practices and strengthened enforcement of the PCPNDT Act, raising awareness about the  value of the girl child.

“Empowerment is not one gender asserting dominance over another; it’s about dignity, equality and respect,” said Deshpande. Rejecting the ‘superwoman syndrome’, she stressed the importance of shared responsibility and stronger support systems. Her initiatives also tackle child marriage, life skills, and livelihood training, helping girls delay marriage, continue education, and pursue careers. She advocates for joint ownership of assets and states that it is vital for women’s security and influence in family affairs.