Jagaran Media Center (JMC)

Annual Report

FY 2013/14

Table Contents

1. Jagaran Media Center (JMC)

2. Media and Advocacy

2.2 Radio Program SAJHA PAHAL

2.3 Radio Program Mukti

2.4 Subash Darnal Jagaran National Journalism Award - 2070

2.5 National Conference on Social Inclusion of Dalit in Media: Challenges and Way Forward

2.6 National Level Training/Workshop to Journalists from Dalit Community on Election Reporting and Dalit Agenda

2.7 ToT on Democracy Peace and Inclusion through Constitution Making Process

2.8 PSA/Jingles

2.9 Social Media Mobilization

3. Democracy and Social Inclusion

3.1 Mass Orientation Programs (MOPs)

3.2 Meet Your Candidate Program

3.3 Street Dramas Performances

4. Dalit Human Rights

4.1 Fact Finding, Case Documentation and Reporting Training

4.2 Fact Finding Missions

5. Resource and Information Center

5.1 Research

5.2 Publication

6. Radio Jagaran 93.6 MHz

7. Education

7.1 Amina Sundas Scholarship - 2013

7.2 School Level Essay Debate Competition

8. Campaigns

9. Community Based Programs

1 . A B O U T J A G A R A N M E D I A C E N T E R ( J M C )

The Jagaran Media Center (JMC) is a non-governmental organization established in 2000 by journalists from the Dalit community in Nepal. In establishing JMC, the journalists sought to bring awareness-the meaning of Jagaran in Nepali-to the situation of the Dalit community in Nepal. Jagaran Media Center is the only media organization in Nepal and, in all of South Asia that was established and run by journalists from the Dalit community. Through media mobilization Jagaran Media Center advocates on a national and local level for the elimination of caste-based discrimination and a more equitable, inclusive and accountable democracy, promoting secularism, human rights, inclusive democracy, environmental justice and sustainable disaster risk reduction through media mobilization. JMC's mission is to use mass media to build an equitable society and end all forms of discrimination. In furtherance of this mission, Jagaran engages in the following areas:

Media: Media is the key of JMC intervention to carry out its mission. Media as a tool is brought the access of Dalit community that pave the ground to let their voice out, JMC simultaneously used different means of media and produces the journalists from Dalit community and build up their capacity which help to bring this community into the mainstream of politics and development. A national network of the Dalit and pro Dalit journalist is build and JMC annually organizes National Conference on Dalit and Media. So far following media tools have been used;

Radio: First ever radio station run by Dalit community in South Asia has been in operation in Rupandehi since 2007 in order to establish social justice, address Dalit-based issues and to lobby for securing constitutional rights for Dalits, other minorities. JMC recognized the necessity of a radio program because the majority of the Dalit population does not have access to education and thus the illiteracy rate is high but radio (a form of media) can reach so many people regardless of their educational level and ability to read.

Tele Serial: An acclaimed Tele serial called Dalan has been produced by JMC and broadcasted through the central broadcasting service of Nepal Television (NTV). The series depicted the life style of Dalit community over generation to generation, the way society view and treat them, their economic status and relation with land and access to justice, inter-caste marriage and the culture of Dalit community. The success of the serial lays the way it has become a tool for lobby and advocacy for right.

Journalism Training: JMC trained more than five hundreds, who are active in different media across the country, Dalit journalists to increase Dalit participation in Nepali media giving media as tool to Dalit youths and also non Dalit to sensitize them on Dalit issue and agenda.

Social Media: To mainstream the voice of Dalit community, JMC utilizes social media. Through its website, blog, Twitter account and Facebook page JMC disperses Dalit news on a daily. It has become a valuable tool to interact with members and interested parties.

Media Watch: to monitor the coverage on Dalit concerns and issues, JMC maintains media watch of national newspapers and publishes media watch report analyzing obtained data. This has helped to measure pattern and progress on coverage status every year. And it provides tool for lobby and advocacy with media organizations and houses.

Advocacy and Dialogue: JMC broadly engages in lobby and advocacy at national and international levels for mainstreaming Dalit community in development process ensuring social justice and access to resources so as to establish their dignity equal to other. Moreover, the advocacy JMC engages with is to make media Dalit friendly so as to ensure physical as well as content of Dalit community in Nepali media. Dalit Human Rights Case Documentation: Atrocities against Dalit community are continuing despite legal bandage that demoralizes status of Dalit people in society. Journalists affiliated with JMC network are the prime actor to bring out such violation from the ground and such cases are tracked properly and disseminated broadly through JMC website and social media. JMC at central level carries strong lobby and creates pressure to ensure justice to victims and punishment to perpetrators jointly with other human right based organization.

Research: researches are the tool for lobby and advocacy on fact basis, therefore JMC engages in research related with media, access to justice and resources of Dalit community and policy practice. Furthermore, it helps to produce knowledge about the Dalit community and provide tool for advocacy and lobby.

Campaign: campaign creates ground for broader access through collective approach among different stakeholders. The campaigns are also the means to promoting awareness and sensitization at larger scale. To combat against caste based discrimination and Untouchability, such campaigns remained more fruitful. Therefore, JMC organizes various campaigns at national and local level jointly with other like minded organizations.

Vision: Building an equitable society

Mission: To work for ending all forms of discrimination and for building an equitable society through mass media

Objective of JMC: Building an inclusive and just society that recognizes the human rights of all individuals.

Guiding Principles of JMC:

1. Campaign for human rights: JMC will respect all rights-based movements and be actively involved in ensuring Dalit rights.

2. Collaborative work culture: JMC will promote a collaborative work culture while respecting ethnic, religious and cultural diversity/

3. Freedom of expression: JMC will respect and promote the right to freedom of information and communication.

4. Scientific culture: JMC will promote a fact based culture rather than one that is based upon unfounded and unsubstantiated beliefs and superstitions.

5. Gender equality: JMC will promote gender equality and inclusion in our organization and society.

6. Democratic values and principles: JMC adhere to and promote the democratic values of accountability and transparency.

Key Principles:

1. Promoting a culture of human rights in Nepal2. Humanitarian concerns, Law & principles in regards to the rights of Dalits3. Respect for gender & cultural diversity4. Impartiality5. Independence6. Accountability and confidentiality7. Partnership and institutional advancement

JMC has two offices in Nepal. The central office is located in Kathmandu and the regional office is in the western region of Nepal in the city of Butwal with its own radio station. In addition, JMC has twenty information centers located in the VDCs of Rupandehi, Navalparasi and Kapilvastu, five HR Alliances and one CBD Action Group in Rupandehi District and has reporters working in each of the seventy-five districts in Nepal. JMC also has a national network of listener and viewer clubs and collaborates with community based radio stations throughout the country.

2 . M E D I A A N D A D V O C A C Y

2.1 Katwal Radio Magazines (KRM): KRM is one of the most popular weekly radio programs produced by JMC. It has been in operation for seven years and can be heard on 15 different radio stations that cover 32 districts of Nepal. In addition, KRM is also broadcast through the use of JMC’s social media network (JMC website and blog and Facebook). KRM has over 18 thousand members and the programs are shared with central and local governmental officials, members of civil society, Dalit right activists, Dalit political leaders, Dalit right based organizations, leaders of students unions, teachers, journalists, media organizations, doctors, women right activists, as well as donor agencies by developing their group mails. This program can be heard at anytime and anywhere downloading from website http://archive.org/details/Katwal.Radio.Magazine.

The goal of KRM is to raise awareness of and advocate on behalf of the Dalit community. In order to achieve this goal, KRM seeks to raise awareness and advocate for the creation and implementation of laws and policies that ensure and protect the rights of the Dalit community. KRM broadcasts programs that deal with issues of social justice and equality, inclusionin the political process and profiles of different Dalit castes. KRM also broadcasts reports prepared by JMC district based reporters.

At the time of the election for the Constitutional Assembly (CA), JMC was provided with support from the Canadian Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) to broadcast an additional 13 episodes on KRM. The purpose of the additional broadcasts was to allow a vehicle for individuals at the community level to interact with politicians and raise the issues and agenda of the Dalit community.

During the 2013-2014 year, KRM had a total of 52 episodes. A total of 68 reports were broadcast through the 52 episodes. The reports covered a variety of themes.

2.2 Radio Program SAJHA PAHA: This radio program is produced at JMC and broadcast by 3 FM radio stations: Radio Jagaran 93.6 MHz Rupandehi, Radio Sudhur Aawaj 89.6 MHz Dadeldhura and Radio Dhadkan 95.0 MHz Siraha. The program is one of the components of "Collective Action for Combating Caste Based Discrimination and Untouchability in Nepal” (SAJHA PAHAL) a program funded by the European Union and jointly implemented by Jagaran Media Center (JMC), Feminist Dalit Organization (FEDO) and Nepal National Dalit Social Welfare Organization (NNDSWO) in Rupandehi, Daeldhura and Siraha. The program advocates for Dalit human rights, Social Security Schemes, legal provision against caste based discrimination and Untouchability, UN Resolution 1325 and 1820, education and constitution making process. The program also informs community level people regarding these issues. Prior to the production and broadcast of the program, a two day workshop was held in Kathmandu for journalists, representatives of governmental organizations and donor agencies, district program coordinators and radio program producers from the districts.

The program is produced on a weekly basis by JMC and district level radio stations. JMC and the district level radio stations alternate responsibility from week to week for the production. This method has been designed in order to maximize synergybetween the central anddistrict level issues. The content of the programming is based upon material developed in workshops. During this year, 10 episodes of this program were produced and broadcast.

2.3 Radio Program Mukti: JMC in cooperation with the European Union and Rastriya Mukta Haliya Mahasang produced and broadcast 35 episodes of this radio program with the goal of advocating for therights of the Haliya (bonded labor). Although the Haliya were liberated by a government decree they have still not been able to achieve equality in Nepali society. The program focused on the gaps in policy and practice, the inconsistencies in the policy and the life of the Haliya people.

Specific Impact of Radio Programs: As is set forth above, three different radio programs were produced and broadcast. Two of the radio programs, KRM and SAJHA PAHAL, focused on the issues and agenda of the Dalit community while Mukti dealt with the issues of the Haliya community. The following are some specific outcomes and achievements of the radio programs:

1. Informed Community Level People: these radio programs provided an opportunity for individuals at the community level to be informed about the issues facing the Dalit community including human rights, legal provisions against caste based discrimination, Untouchability, the constitution making process and government initiatives to institutionalize the rights of Dalit.

2. Sensitize Stakeholders:the radio programs provide an effective means to raise awareness of the issues and agenda of the Dalit community. By doing so, the radio programs assist in advocacy efforts on behalf of the Dalits.

3. Dissemination of Caste Based Discrimination and Untouchability (Offense and Punishment) Act 2008:Although Nepal has been declared a country that is free from caste based discrimination and enacted into law the Caste Based Discrimination and Untouchability (Offense and Punishment) Act 2008, it has been found that there is a great deal of ignorance by governmental officials at the ground level. Thus, the radio program sought to provide information about the Act to its’ listeners with the goal of providing people with the tools they need to assert their rights with government officials.

4. Accountable of Law Enforcement Agencies: in order to ensure that law enforcement agencies are held accountable, the radio programs sought to document the voices of the individuals at the community level who had their rights violated. By doing so, the radio programs not only provide a voice to these individuals who would have otherwise been voiceless but also provide evidence to present in support of the enactment of laws and policies to protects the rights of the Dalit community.

2.4 Subash Darnal Jagaran National Journalism Award, 2070: Every year JMC awards the journalists with Suvash Darnal Jagaran National Journalism Award recognizing their contribution for the promotion of just and equitable society through media. This year the award

was bagged by Mr. Madhav Aryal from Palpa and Mr. Bijay Mishra from Siraha who are actively working journalists outside the Kathmandu Valley. The award was distributed in a program organized on 15th August, 2013 to mark second Memorial Day of late Suvash Darnal. Honorable, Madhav Poudel Minister, Information and Communication who was invited as chief guest of the program distributed the award with cash prize 10,000 to each with certificate. JMC established this award in the name of its founding president late Suvash Darnal recognizing his contribution for creating just society through media ending all forms of social discrimination.

To select right candidates for award a team lead by former FNJ president Mr. Dharmendra Jha was formed in which Nirmala Sharma, president, Sancharia Samuha and Mr. Ghama Raj Luitel, freelance journalist were the members. Before recommending the candidates for award, the committee set the guidelines and announced the invitation. In the same program Suvash Darnal Citizen Award, 2013 was given to late Man Bahadur Bk who was a member of upper house of then parliament. Speaking in the program chief guest and others appreciated JMC initiation to ward journalists who are active outside the valley equitable and just society. They also memorized the contribution and personalities of late Suvash Darnal.

2.5 National Conference on Social Inclusion of Dalit in Media: Challenges and Way

Forward: A two day national conference, "Inclusion of Dalit in Nepali Media: Challenges and

Ways Forward", was organized in Lalitpur on the 14 th and 15th of April, 2014. The objectives of

the programs;

To bring the issue of inclusion of Dalits in Nepali media into the mainstream agenda for

Nepali media;

To discuss the inclusion of Dalit in Nepali Media and exert pressure on media houses to be

more inclusive;

To advocate for more inclusive and favorable policies for Dalit journalists;

To devise a collective strategy to advocate for social inclusion of Dalit and eliminate caste

based discrimination.

Honorable Prime Minister Sushil Koirala provided a written message in which he expressed his

best wishes for the success of the program and commitment to the issues of the Dalit community

and recognized that the new constitution must be inclusive of the Dalit community. The Prime

Minister recognized that the Dalit community is the most vulnerable group of people in Nepal

and that the new constitution must assert and safeguard their rights to be part of an inclusive,

democratic and free society in Nepal. The Prime Minister also called for special initiative to be

taken by the government and non-government media houses to ensure representation of the Dalit

and other marginalized communities. Prime Minister expressed his commitment that the new

constitution would be inclusive and provide for the necessary rights and protections of the Dalit

community.

During the Conference, thematic experts presented papers and interacted with 100 Dalit and non-

Dalit journalists from the district level and Kathmandu. The paper presentations were divided

into three sessions. At the first session, two papers were presented by Dr. Yam Bahadur Kisan,

advocate and social inclusion expert, and Mr. Binod Pahadi, former CA member and Dalit right

activist on “Constitution building process and Dalit Rights” and “Role of Media and Dalit Rights

in New Constitution”. A third paper was presented by Mr. Prakash Chandra Pariyar, central

committee member of Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) on "Challenges of Dalit Journalists

in Nepali Mass Media" and fourth paper was by Mr. Kundan Aryal, senior journalist and the

professor of Mass Communication at Tribhuvan University on "Social Inclusion in Nepali

Media". After the presentation of each paper, there was an open dialogue session between the

presenters and the participants. The conference closed up with 14 point Kathmandu Declaration.

Significant Impact of the Program:

1. The conference was a success and brought together journalist from both Dalit and pro-

Dalit media who work at both the national and local level. The conference provided an

opportunity for capacity building, coordination and cooperation amongst journalists from

both the Dalit and pro-Dalit sections. Journalists who are members of JMC and work in

the field were given an opportunity to learn from others and share their experiences and

frustrations. The conference was recognized by the national media and there was an

agreement to form a nation campaign of journalists to confront caste based discrimination

and Untouchability.

2. The conference also provided an opportunity for collaboration between representatives

from various sectors including media academician, media activists, and professional

media unions. All of these participants were able to share their thoughts regarding the

role that Nepali mass media can play in ensuring that the Dalit agenda is incorporated

into the new constitution. The conference also provided an opportunity for JMC to

present its’ recently developed bulletins and publications.

3. The conference also brought together various media stakeholders who made a

commitment to work towards the inclusion of Dalit issues and agenda in the mass media.

4. The conference issued the “Kathmandu Declaration of 2014” that recommends and

commits to a more inclusive media.

2.6 National Level Training/Workshop to Journalists from Dalit Community on Election

Reporting and Dalit Agenda: JMC believes that the role of media in current transitional

political period is very crucial. Nepali media and journalists have a very important role to create

conducive environment for free, fair, participatory and Dalit sensitive election. However, Nepali

media often gets too politicized and consequently issues of Dalit are often ignored. Therefore,

the two day training sought to provide education and capacity building for journalists to report

on Dalit issues.

The program was facilitated by JB Bisokarma and Samir Ghimire, both of whom are research

and media workers with a series of publication and past trainings. The training workshop was

divided into the following sessions: group division presentation, practical workshop and sharing

findings and feedbacks. A total of 50 journalists participated in the workshop and of the

participants, 20 were from outside Kathmandu, 20 were female journalists and 15 were non Dalit

journalists. The participants work in different media means such as newspaper, radio, television

and on-line journalism. The participants represented a cross-section of the Nepali population.

Major Impact of the Training/Workshop:

Capacity building with respect to election reporting, human rights documentation and the

role of the media to advance the agenda and issues of the Dalit community.

Education of non-Dalit journalists to the Dalit issues and agenda and the role of media with

respect to advancing the rights of this marginalized community.

The role and utilization of social media which journalists from the Dalit community found

to be extremely helpful.

2.7 ToT on Democracy, Peace and Inclusion through Media: With the goal of enhancing the capacity of journalists working in the district of Rupandehi, Kapilvastu and Navalparai, a three days ToT program was organized on Democracy, Peace and Inclusion through Media from 29th to 31t of January, 2014. The training was facilitated by senior journalist, Mr. Raghu Mainaly, and the trainers were Mr. Binod Pahadi, Ms. Aarati Chataut and Mr. JB Bishwakarma. The participants' composition is as shown in the table

Gender/Social Groups

B/C Janajati Dalit Muslim Total

Male 10 4 20 1 35

Female 5 1 10 - 16

Total 15 5 29 2 51

To measure knowledge level of participants a small survey was conducted. The finding of the survey showed that more than 90% of the participants had very limited knowledge regarding issues addressed in the training program. After the training, all the participants reported that they had gained a comprehensive understanding of the issues. 65% of the participants said they would be able to conduct a similar training for other journalists at the district level. The participants also said that the methodology employed in the training program was highly effective and contributed greatly to their ability to learn and benefit from the program. The majority of participants said that continued training that were more comprehensive and for a longer period of time would be extremely useful and beneficial.

Specific Impact: The impact of this program can be seen on a number of different levels. To begin with, the program was successful in enhancing the knowledge and understanding of working journalists about the various aspects of election reporting, persuasive communication, democracy, gender sensitivity and social inclusion in the media. In addition, the program allowed for the creation of resource materials that can be used in advocacy efforts with media houses and the government on issues relating to the Dalit community and women.

The program also established a report to track the work of the journalists who participated in the training. The report is prepared and published on a quarterly basis.

2.6 PSA/Jingles: community based radio has been a proven tool to effect social change. PSA/Jingles were specifically designed to provide information to the public during and after the election. The programs were broadcast during the evening in an effort to reach the largest number of people at the community level. Five social awareness programs were produced through Radio Jagaran and following the election PSA’s on caste based discrimination and social inclusion were broadcast twelve times per day.

During this project period 7 PSAs/ Jingles that dealt with the following themes were broadcast:

1) Election promotional 2) Inter caste Marriage3) Legal remedy of Caste based discrimination and Untouchability4) Legal provision against caste based discrimination and Untouchability 5) Social inclusion

2.7 Social Media Mobilization: JMC social media network is an instrumental took in the

dissemination of information on the Dalit issues and agenda. During the reporting period, JMC

increased its’ social media capacity and was able to provide regular updates prior to and

following the election. Issues related to Dalit human right violation cases, social security, and

political, social and economic issue have been uploaded. News related to this project can be read

at JMC blog and photos can be viewed on JMC Facebook.

The link of JMC social media network:

Facebook: - Jagaran Media Center (JMC)

E-mail address: - info@jagaranmedia.org.np

Website: - www.jagaranmedia.org.np

Blog: - www.jagaranmedia.wordpress.com,

Major Impact of Website Development/ Social Media Mobilization

JMC resource are shared with larger audience as a result of the new website that is user

friendly; ;

JMC social media network has been widely recognized as alternative means of media for

Dalit and marginalized communities;

It is also used as new hub for Dalit news in Nepal.

3 . D E M O C R A C Y A N D S O C I A L I N C L U S I O N

3.1 Mass Orientation Programs (MOPs): in order to raise awareness in the Dalit and other marginalized community, 100 MOPs were conducted. Sixty MOPs were conducted prior to the election and forty were conducted following the election. The pre-election MOPs focused on voting method, value of election and the attitude of political parties during the election period. The post-election MOPs focused on the role that the Dalit and other marginalized communities can play in the constitutional making process. The post-election MOPs also focused on various social issues that are relevant to the Dalit and other marginalized communities. The participants in the MOPs were able to engage with each other and the facilitators. More than 4700 participated in the MOPs and 50% of the participants were women. In order to ensure the successful implementation of the MOPs, focal persons were assigned for local coordination together with a facilitator for each program. Knowledge of the local community, language and

gender were considered in the selection process for facilitators. Individuals who speak regional languages such as Maithali or Bhojpuri were chosen.In order to ensure consistency and accuracy in the implementation of the MOPs, an orientation package was developed and distributed. Prior to the outreach activities, trainings were held for the facilitators to provide information, objectives and methodology that should be employed in the implementation of the program. Considerations of gender and membership in a marginalized group were taken into consideration in the implementation of the program.

Significant Impact: the MOPs greatly contributed to raising awareness amongst the Dalit and other marginalized communities. As a result, members of the Dalit and other marginalized communities became educated about the election process and were able to cast their vote as informed and empowered citizens.

3.2 Meet Your Candidate Program: with the goal of raising awareness and sensitivity of the issues and agendas of the Dalit and other marginalized communities, six “Meet Your Candidate” programs were organized. JMC recognizes and understands that individuals in the community are not given the opportunity to interact with those want to be elected to government. Therefore, this program was implemented in two phase in order to cover the pre and post election period. The first phase of took place in the local communities and the second phase took place in Kathmandu. Candidates from major political parties participated in the local community program and members of the CA participated in the Kathmandu based program.

Pre election Programs: At the time of election, common people in the village areas hardly got any opportunity to meet and interact with the candidates from different political parties at the same and place. And this is the most effective time to make the election candidates accountable towards their voters. Individually they interacted and tried to assure people that they will do everything if they won election. Realizing this fact, JMC organized three Meet Your Candidate programs where the common people freely argued, interacted and interrogated to the First Pass the Post candidates of major political parties in Rupandehi, Navalparasi and Kapilvastu.

The Program Summary

SN District/ Location

Date/Time Name of Candidates

Remarks

1. Kapilvastu/Jitpur 15th November/ 1. Mr. Chandra Prasad Khanal- Baldev, UCPN (Maoist)2. Mr. Dip Kumar

Upadhya, Nepali Congress (NC)3. Shiva Poudel, National People Front

2. Navalparasi/Bhum ai

16th November, 2013

1. Mr. Chinak KurmiUCPN (Maoist)2.Mr. Devendra Raj Kanel, NC3. Mr. Bijanath Chaudhary CPN (UML)

3. Rupandehi/ 16th December, 2013

1.Binod Upadhyaya,UCPN (Maoist)2. MR. Badri Aalam, National People Front3. Sachin Roka, Independent candidate

The following are the key messages that emerged from the programs: :

Although the political parties talked a great deal about social inclusion, they failed to support 33% of women candidates. At election time, political leaders freely touch the leg of Dalit but once elected fail be representative of the community. It is necessary to hold politicians accountable to their constituents who, in the case of the Dalit community, have sacrificed a great deal in the interest of democracy and freedom. The pace of development in the Dalit community is slow and thus the reality on the ground is not reflective of the promises of politicians. For example, Dalits still continue to wait in line in order to get their water from the public water tap. Caste based discrimination is perpetuated by political leaders who pressure members of the community to not seek legal redress for atrocities that took place against the Dalits. Radio Jagaran has become our close friend and a place to raise our voices and lobby for justice on behalf of the Dalit community.

Post Election Programs: in the change political context, organizing meet your candidate programs in the central level was more impact oriented. Moreover, the representation of Dalit and other marginalized community in the current CA is remarkably low than the previous CA. Realizing this fact; three programs were conducted in Kathmandu with the CA members from both Dalit and non Dalit communities of major political parties. They have crucial role in the constitution making process and sensitizing them on the issues of Dalit and other marginalized communities in this crucial time period was equally important.

The Program Summary

SN Theme Date/Time Name of CA members

Location Remarks

1. "Constitution Building Process and the Issues of Dalit Women"

20th February, 2014

1. Kamala Bishwakrma

2. Durga Poudel 3. Sujata

Pariyar4. Shiva

Kumari Gotame Sarki

5. Dulari Harijan

6. Anita Kumai Pariyar

7. Kabita Sardar8. Teku Nepali

Anamnagar, Kathmandu

2. "Issues of Dalit Community in the New Constitution"

26th February, 2014

1. Min Bahadur Bishwakarma

2. Sujata Pariyar

Buddhanagar, Kathmandu

3. "Constituent Assembly and Dalit Right"

28th February, 2014

1. Chandra Bhandari

2. Rabindra Bhandari

3. Shakti Bahaur Basnet

4. Durga Poudel5. Kamala

Bishwakarma

Babarmahal, Kathmandu

Key achievements: The meet your candidate programs provided a valuable opportunity for individuals to interact with politicians from different political parties. The interaction between the individuals at the community level and political leaders ensures that after the election leaders can be held accountable if they do not pursue the promises and representations they made. The post election programs continued to raise the issues and agenda of the Dalit community while at the same time significantly contributing to their inclusion in the mainstream media. The programs were successful in that it was a forum where advocacy with CA members resulted in a commitment that the issues and agenda of the Dalit and other marginalized communities will be included in the constitution making process. The engagement of civil societies in the program was

a success and resulted in a continued commitment to advocate on behalf of the Dalit and other marginalized groups. Civil society organizations came to an agreement that they would develop a monitoring program to track the progress of the CA and its’ members with respect to the inclusion of the issues and agenda of the Dalit community in the constitution making process.

3.3 Street Dramas Performances: JMC’s experience on voter education program during Previous CA election, reports and surveys conducted by Election Commission and other agency indicated that street dramas are the most effective and concrete methods for voter education, and in particular for empowering women, Dalit youth, marginalized communities and first time voters. Therefore, JMC held 5 street drama performances in five different VDCs. The goal of the dramas was to provide education at the community level regarding the method of vote casting, information about how candidate and their cadre often try to cheat voters, the CA and the constitution building process. The dramas were designed with the community in mind and therefore local language, customs and behavior was employed in order to reach the widest audience. There was as high percentage of female viewers.

The Program Summary

S. N Date Location Remarks1. 14th November, 2013 Sunwal Bazar2. 14th November, 2013 Makar - Bardhghat3. 15th November, 2013 Siddhartha Nagar Palika,

Hatbazar 4. 15th November, 2013 Motipur -

5. 16th November Panchanagar

4 . D A L I T H U M A N R I G H T S

4.1 Fact Finding, Case Documentation and Reporting Training: Three day training on “Fact finding, case documentation and reporting for Caste Based Discrimination Action Group (CBD Action Group) members and Human right activists was organized in Butwal on 9 May to 11 May,

2014. The training aims to enhance the capacity of CBD action group at district level enabling them instantly to mobilize for fact finding/fair investigation and prosecution on the case of caste discrimination and gender violence. It also helped to build up the capacity of participants on the procedures of fact finding, case documentation of the cases.

The training sessions were facilitated by the Human Right Officer Chandrakant Chapaiga National Human Rights Commission of Nepal as lead trainer whereas Deepa Sunar was an assistant trainer. Methods used during the training included: presentations, discussions, group work, role playing, case studies, and discussions. In addition to the training contents, additional topics included Conceptual clarity on human right, big seven human rights instruments, social inclusion and rights of Dalit, Legal Mechanism against caste Based Discrimination, concept of human rights monitoring/fact finding, process and methods of fact finding, basic elements of fact finding , skill for report writing and interview techniques.

Main achievements:-

comprehensive knowledge and conceptual clarity on human right, human right monitoring/fact finding were imparted to the participants who were in need of this skill;

CBD action group members became sensitized and cleared about how to conduct investigation on different violation cases;

Capacity enhanced of participants on the procedures of fact finding, case documentation and reporting.

4.2 Fact Finding Missions and Case Documentation: With the motive of ensuring protection of Dalit human rights, JMC advocates and lobbies through its Human Rights Department. This department documents violation of Dalit human rights, disperses the news through mainstream and local media, conducts field visits to monitor the cases, organizes meetings with Dalit-rights based organizations and creates pressure to ensure justice to the victim and prosecute the perpetrators through proper legal channels.

JMC has the national network of Dalit and pro Dalit journalists, who at grass root level work as the Dalit human right watchdog and share the violation cases occurred over their which JMC publishes through its social media network and radio program and disseminates to several other mainstream media as well. Once such violation cases are received through media or network, JMC organized a collective meeting of Dalit right based organizations for formulating strategy to approach the case and work for lobby to ensure justice and right through media mobilization.

In the year 2013, JMC from central and district level intensively engaged in fact finding missions and lobby to ensure justice to victims and punishment to the perpetrators jointly with other like minded organizations. Followings are the cases and districts in which Fact finding missions were gone and cases were documented;

Rautahat: Collective attack by non Dalit community over Dalit community in the name of using public temple by Dalit community. In this case Dalits were made deprived from their basic need for several days. And in the initiatives of JMC and other organization including National Human Right Commission and National Dalit commission, the victims got access to need.

Morang: In Belbari of Morang district, a Dalit woman named Maya Sarki was physically assaulted publically for being sexually abused. For many days she could not go back to her home due to the fear of attack. Initiative JMC took through media resulted into success to give justice to the victim as national level media gave sound coverage in this issues

Nawalparasi: in Nawalparasi, a mission was carried out on Manamaya Pariyar and Laxmi Nepali's case, who were physically and verbally assaulted by non Dalit people publically because of being Dalit. The mission organized consultation meeting with the victims. Through interview, interaction and consultation with victims and locals, the mission reached to the conclusion that it was the result of caste based discrimination and Untouchability against Dalit people. Pressure was created for ensuring justice to the victims.

Rupandehi: In Butwal-4, Mainabagar, in the name so called lower caste, Sabita Bishwakarma 18 year pregnant woman from Dalit community was bitten severely by Bishnu Maya Chhetri. Fact finding mission team went to the field study. Through details study interviewing, interacting and consultation with victims, culprits and locals and the family members of victims, the mission concluded that the violation against Sabita Bishwakarma was the outcome of caste based discrimination against Dalit woman. CBD action groups carried out lobbying for legal procedure and registered the case in Area Police Office Butwal. Finally the victim got justice.

5 . R E S O U R C E A N D I N F O R M A T I O N C E N T E R

The JMC is proud to host one of the leading centers for Dalit information in Nepal.   The Dalit Research and Resource Center hosts many books, articles and research studies linked to the Dalit movement. As JMC documents and follows cases of Dalit human rights violations around the country, The Dalit Research and Resource Center grows its collection of this information that enables the media and other civil society members to make these cases public. JMC researches various Dalit issues from time to time, which also adds to the value of Resource Center. The Resource Centre continually strives to expand its activities and become the leading resource for information on Dalit rights and caste-based discrimination in Nepal.  We welcome journalists, students, professors, researchers and anyone seeking a better understanding of the Nepal’s Dalit issues to utilize this source for enlightenment and as a tool for advocacy.

To enrich this center JMC in different time period organized book collection campaign, collect the books from different personalities, purchases book under the various project schemes and maintain the media watch of every day for last 14 years.

5.1 Research

5.1.1 Situation Analysis of Caste Based Discrimination against Dalit Community and the Right to Food Situation of Dalit Children: in cooperation with the Asia Human Rights Commission (AHRC), JMC conducted a survey in the eastern plains districts of Siraha and Saptari that sought to analyze the following issues: access and right to food, family size, level of education, land ownership, housing, representation in consumer groups/cooperatives/savings groups/affiliation in social institutions, income and savings, loan arrangements, discrimination and exclusion, citizenship, food habits, special food arrangement for children, health concerns with respect to children, state’s responsibility, restriction on access to resources, food availability and market. 100 households from 10 VDCs in the Siraha and Saptari districts participated in the survey.

Conclusions and Recommendations: The findings from the survey in household in Siraha and Saptari clearly reflect that Dalit families do not have the right to adequate food despite the fact that that Nepal has an international and domestic obligation to provide sufficient food to its’ citizens. The survey coupled with prior research makes clear that the Dalit community, and in particular children, are deprived the right to adequate food. The impact on children is particularly acute given the negative impact lack of adequate and nutritious food can have on an individual’s health. The findings of the survey also demonstrated the correlation between the right to adequate food and other basis human rights such as health, housing, education, information and social security. The impact of the deprivation of the right to adequate food is particularly acute for Dalit children who faced health problems as a result of the lack of adequate food that impacted their ability to do well in school. The survey revealed that the lack of right to adequate food is not attributable any one factor but rather a combination of many factors such as economic deprivation, caste discrimination, illiteracy and lack of resources. Moreover, the survey also revealed that there is a failure on the part of the government and non-governmental organization with respect to the right to adequate food. The results of this survey support a conclusion that the right to adequate food among the Dalit community in the Siraha and Saptaria is an imminent human rights issues that requires immediate action. There must be better protection, promotion and fulfillment of the adequate right to food. The following recommendations are made based upon the results of the survey:

1. The government must introduce a comprehensive food policy; and the government should introduce a safety net program that targets emergency situations to protect, promote and fulfill its’ obligations relating to the right to adequate food. a know your rights program should be created for the Dalits of Siraha and Saptari to ensure that they are aware of their rights. There needs to be representation from the Dalit community in civil society, community based organization and social institutions. NGOs should focus on advocacy and lobbing programs to ensure the right to adequate food.

2. Livelihood programs must be conducted targeting the Dalit community and their access to resources should be guaranteed by state.

3. As the right to adequate food is related to other rights a comprehensive program should be conducted at the grass roots level to address this issue. The state should establish

policies and programs to that target the Dalit community with the goal of enhancing their right to adequate food and socio-economic status.

5.2 Publication:

1. Jagaran Bulletin 2. Dalit Targeted Policy, Program and Social Security of Government of Nepal: An

Information Collection, 20133. United Nations Security Council Resolutions 1325 and 1820, Domestic Violation Act,

2010: An Information Booklet, 20134. Freedom of Expression and Importance of Safety of Journalists, 2014

6 . R A D I O J A G A R A N 9 3 . 6 M H Z

Radio is one of the most effective ways of disseminating our message to the public. In January 2007, JMC obtained a government license to operate a radio station. Radio Jagaran - which broadcasts from Rupandehi, a city in the western region of Nepal, operates at 93.6 MHz with a capacity of 500 watts. It can be heard in the districts of Rupandehi, Kapilvastu, Nawalparasi, Palpa, Arghakhanchi, Pyuthan, Dang, Tanahu, Chitwan and Gulmi. Radio Jagaran hosts a variety of programs in order to establish social justice, address Dalit-based issues and to lobby for securing constitutional rights for Dalits, other minorities, women, physically challenged, ethnic castes, indigenous people, Muslims and Madhesis. It broadcasts programs 18 hours per day.

7 . E D U C A T I O N

7.1Amina Sundas Jagaran Talent Dalit Student Award - 2013: Each year Jagaran Media Center (JMC) gives award entitled "Amina Sundas Jagaran Talent Dalit Student Award" to one male and one female student from Dalit community who scorethe highest marks ontheSLC examination. The goal of the award is to encourage students to work towards achieving academic excellence.

This year the award was given to Mr. Akash Pariyar and Ms. Puja Ramtel were the recipients of the award. Mr. Aakash Pariya sorred 88.75% and Ms. Puja Ramtel scored 86.75% on their SLC examinations. The award ceremony was held at the office of JMC and Mr. Padam Sundas

honored the students with a certifiate and 10,000 rupees. The candidates for the award were selected by JMC through an open call for admissions.

At the same program, Sujit Kumar Darnal who scored high marks in his first year examination of MBBS, Institute of Medicine (IOM) was honored with a 50,000 rupees award. The money for the award was donated by the Dalit community living in London.

7.2 School Level Essay Debate Competition: 10 school level essay debate competitions were held in Rupandehi, Navalparasi and Kapilvastu with the goal of enhancing the knowledge and understanding of students on various aspects of the relationship between democracy and the constitution building process, social inclusion and the rights of minorities. An additional goal of this program was to encourage students to work hard and write about social issues. 10 schools were selected through consultation with the District Education Office (DEO). Three of the districts prioritized those schools with highest numbers of female and minority students. The proximity of the schools to Dalit settlements and the number of students from the Dalit community was also considered in the selection process.

Based upon the data provided by the District Education Office (DEO), 15 to 20 Dalit children are enrolled and the Dalit children have a higher rate of not completing school than children from other groups. Dalit children represent 15-20% of the school population.

Twenty-seven Dalit students participated in the competitions and six of these students achieved the top four positions including first and second place. In order to ensure fairness in the competition, a three member evaluation committee was formed that was responsible for selecting the winners of the competition. Based upon their performance, the top four students in each competition were awarded a certificate and cash prize. Winners by Gender

Impact: All of the students who participated in the competition expresses the view that a new constitution must be enacted as soon as possible to ensure that the rights of marginalized communities.

8 . C A M P A I G N S

Campaign creates ground for broader access through collective approach among different stakeholders. The campaigns are also the means to promoting awareness and sensitization at larger scale. To combat against caste based discrimination and Untouchability, such campaigns

Position/Gender Male Female TotalFirst 6 4 10Second 5 5 10Third 3 7 10Fourth 5 5 10Total 19 21 40

remained more fruitful. Therefore, JMC organizes various campaigns at national and local level jointly with other like minded organizations. Following are the campaigns JMC involved in this year

1. Human Rights Megna Meet 20132. 12 Days Anti - Discrimination National Campaign 3. Anti-discrimination Campaigns including multi-stakeholder Dialogues4. Press met at District Level5. Peace Rally and Mass Meeting

9 . C O M M U N I T Y B A S E D P R O G R A M S :

JMC has been active in community level programs under the project of Collective Action for Combating Caste Based Discrimination in Nepal - SAJHA PAHAL project funded by European Union. The programs are carried out in four VDCs of Rupandehi districts; Siktahan, Asurena, Khaga Bangai, Chiliya and Butwal-13. During this reporting year, following are the community based activities;

9.1 HR Alliance Formation and Mobilization at VDC Level: five VDC Level alliance have been formed in Rupandehi. With the coordination of VDC secretary and other concerned agencies, alliance members were selected and provided information for conference to Dalit/Non Dalit women right activities/Defender, youth club members, journalists and mobilized in advocating for the best interest of Dalit and women in the society. VDC level conference had selected 11- 13 members for the alliance and among the members one person was nominated as a chairperson of the alliance. While forming the alliance, the inclusion of all marginalized communities including women, Madheshi, Janajati, Muslim was ensured as far as possible. The alliances will be working pro-actively for the protection and promotion of rights of Dalit and combat caste and gender based discrimination in the community.

Details of alliance member

Sn VDCs Alliance member

Male

Female

Total Dalit Janajati Madeshi

Muslim B/C Other

1 Siktahan 10 3 13 6 5 1 1

2 Asurena 10 1 11 5 2 1 2 1

3 Kha.bangai 5 6 11 5 2 1 1 1 1

4 Chiliya 7 6 13 8 2 2 1

5 Butwal-13 4 7 11 5 2 - - 4 -

total 36 23 59 29 13 2 3 10 3

9.2 Lobbying visits and memorandum submission to different stakeholder: series of lobbying visits and memorandum submission activities were held as a part of 12 days campaigns. The objective of such initiative was to draw the attention of key stakeholders, law enforcements agencies, policy makers and political parties including wider society on the issue of caste discrimination and Untouchability. During these visits a memorandums were submitted at District Administration Office, VDCs and Political parties. Memorandum was submitted to Chief District office officer on 24 May 2013. To enhance the effectiveness of program and to build more pressure, these activities were conducted with partnership with other Dalit Civil NGOs including NNDSWO, FEDO and, DDUDCC and sister organization of different political parties. Similarly memorandums were submitted to Political parties including Nepali Congress, CPNUML and UCPN Maoist. Receiving the memorandum, Chief district officer and Political parties’ leader expressed their commitment to effectively implement Untouchability Elimination Act.2068. Similarly lobbying meeting was conducted with CDO, LDO, DSP, DEO, and Chief district health office on 26th May 2013.Addressing in the lobby meeting CDO expressed his commitment to provide full support to adequately enforce the law against caste discrimination and Untouchability. He also urged people to come forward and inform police and administration about the incident of caste discrimination and Untouchability.

9.3 Multi-stakeholder dialogue/interaction on the implementation and impact of Anti-Untouchability Act at district Level: JMC Rupandehi has conducted Multi-stakeholder dialogue/interaction program on 4 June 2013 with the coordination of district level Dalit organization including DDUDCC. In the interaction program Dipa Sunar and Durga Shrestha presented paper entiled Role and Challenge of stakeholder to implementation of Untouchability act 2068. Arjun Gyawali and Sanjay Bishwakarma made the comments on the paper. In Rupandehi district, this event was organized in coordination with organizations including; FEDO, NNDSWO and other nine organizations. Altogether 149 participants were participated in the program. Among them, 99 were male and 50 females (Dalit-126, Janajati-5, Muslim-3, Madeshi-6, B/C-9) The formal programme was organized in the participation of Human right activists, representatives of governmental and non governmental institutions

as well as journalists. the program live onair was made through Radio Jagaran . The programme was chaired by the Vice-president of District Dalit Upliftment and Development Coordination Commitee Mr.Padam Bishwakarma and Chief District Officer(CDO) Mr. Bal krishna Panthi was invited as the chief guest and District Superidentant of Police (DSP) was special guest. Program run by Mr. Surendra Singh Bishwakarama. Similarly, Mr. Indra Bahadur Bishwakarma highlighted the overall goal and objectives of the programme icluding wellcome speech. The meeting was very sucsessful as all the particpants emphasied on collaborative and pro-active role to combat caste discrimination. Participants also emphasied on the sensitivity among stakeholders' on the issue and they agreed to set up a collective mechanims to reduce caste discrimination.

9.4 Formation and mobilization of CBD Action Group at District Level: Cast Based Discrimination (CBD action group) formation program was Conducted on 20th August, 20123 at Rupandehi. Altogether 22 (Dalit-15, janajati-3 and B/C-4) participants have attended in this program including staffs. Among them, 11 were female and 11 was Male. The Main objective was to form district level CBD action group and make them active against caste based discrimination and Untouchability and gender based violence at community level. District level conference formed a action group of 11 members While forming the alliance, the inclusion of all marginalized communities including women, Madheshi, Janajati, Muslim were insured as far as possible. This alliance is working pro-actively for the protection and promotion of rights of Dalit, women and combat caste and gender based discrimination in the district Level

9.4 Interactive Mass Awareness Meeting at VDC Level: The project organized interaction mass awareness meeting at Butwal-13, Shrijananagar, Chiliya, Kha. BangaiSiktahan and Asurian VDCs on “Anti-Untouchability Act, NAP (1325 & 1820” for Alliance Member was organized. Human and Women activities, teachers, community leader and male and female from the both Dalit and non-Dalit community level were among the participants.

Objectives of mass awareness meeting:-

To provide information on Untouchability Act. And NAP 1325&1820 and constitutional provision against discrimination.

Orient about the various law enforcement agencies and their procedure while filling a case. Provide information and orient about the role of CSO leaders and human rights defenders

on the proper application of the laws.

Main Achievements:-

256 Community people aware on about anti-Untouchability Act.2068 and NAP 1323 & 1820.

Became clear various law enforcement agencies like police, VDC’s secretary. CSO leader, human rights defenders gave information of their role. Built strong coordination with VDC level stakeholder.

Participants Details by social groups

S. N VDCs Participants

Male Female

Total

Dalit Janajati Madeshi Muslim B/C Program’s Date

1 Asurena-5 38 30 68 30 20 10 1 7 26 Nov.2013

2 Siktahan 13 45 58 14 24 - - 20 28 Nov.2013

3 Kha.Bangai

2 31 33 14 6 - - 13 29 Nov. 2013

4 Butwal-13 4 48 52 24 13 - 1 14 2 Dec.2013

5 Chiliya 6 39 45 23 20 - - 1 3 Dec.2013

Total 63 193 256 105 83 10 2 55

9.5 Orientation to Dalit artisans on Preparation for Getting Traditional Skill Certificate From CTEVT: One day Orientation program was conducted on 22 December, 2013 in Butwal. This main objective was to provide information for traditional skill based business artisans and to increase self esteem as certified human resources among Dalit artisans. In Orientation program 10 traditional skill based Dalit artisans were participated. Participants were become clear in following topics.

Introduction of national Skill testing board and its role and responsibility. What is the skill testing? Advantage of skill testing. Required elements for skill testing. Introduction of occupational skill standard/profile, etc.

After orientation 6 participants applied for sewing skilltesting. In this program 13 participants were participated including office staff.

9.8 Legal Rights and \Justice Procedure Training to Community Level Rights Activists/Alliance: The project organized 3 day training on Legal right and justice procedure training for Alliance Member and Human and Women activists within this reporting period. This training was started on 15 June 2014 at Chiliya VDC and completed on 17 June 2014 and training was conducted at Kha.Bangai VDC on 26 June following project guideline. The training

sessions were facilitated by the Lawyers Deepa Sunar and Puspa Laxmi Shrestha. Methods used during the training included: presentations, discussions, group work, role playing, case studies, and discussions. In addition to the training contents, additional topics included Human right, Anti-Untouchability Act 2068, Gender discrimination, Gender violence, and NAP (1325 & 1820). A total of 47 (17 males and 30 Females, Dalit-15, Janajati-18, B/C-13 and Madeshi-1) participants participated the Training. During the reporting time only two events have been finished at Chiliya and Kha.Bangai VDCs.

Main achievement of Training:-

47 participants got comprehensive knowledge about human rights and Legal right, Legal provision on equality and non discrimination.

They become able to do lobby on the issues caste base discrimination, Domestics violence on the basis of Untouchability -act and anti domestic violence act.

Prepared helping hand for lobbying at community level. Increased level of knowledge and information among the target people on related policy

provision/legal procedure and services. Participants express their commitment to be mobilized at VDC Level.

Financial Report 2013-2014

List of financial source and contribution

S.N. Name of International Donor

Name of Project Year

1 European Union (EU) Collective Action for Combating Caste Based Discrimination in Nepal "SAJHA PAHAL"

January, 2013 to December, 2015

2 SPCBN/UNDP Nepal Media Advocacy to Mainstream and Secure Rights of Dalit in New Constitution

15 August to 14 November, 2014

3 UNESCO Kathmandu Office

Promoting gender equality and pluralism in nepali media by building capacity of journalists with special focus on gender perspective and sensitizing persons to be more gender sensitive

15 August, 2014 to 14 November, 2014

4 Canadian Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI)

"Enhancing Democracy Through Advocacy and Media Mobilization on Electoral Process"

October, 2013 to March, 2014

5 Open Society Foundation (OSF)

Establishment of inclusive democracy and good governance among second generation Nepali populace through Katwal Radio Magazine (KRM)”

April 2012- April 2013

6 Embassy of Finland Enhance the Capacity of the Media for Dalit and Social Inclusion Issues in Nepal

March 2010- March 2012

7 SDC 'Media Initiative for Dalit Mainstreaming Programme' 

2004

8 Aus Aid Protection and promotion of Dalit Human Rights

January 2007- December 2007

9 Doen Foundation Strengthening the Institutional Capacity of JMC

2004-2006

10 European Union (EU) Combating Caste based Discrimination through Tele-serial Dalan

2005

11 Care Nepal Dalit Empowerment Programme 2001

12 UNDP Social Justice for Peace Programme 2003

13 Dalit Empowerment and Inclusion Project- DEIP

2003 to 2006

14 The Asia Foundation Intra Dalit dialogue for reviewing Dalit movement in Nepal

September, 2012-February, 2013