Voices For Freedom is pleased to present two volumes of reports that shed light on a dark and often-overlooked period of Indian history. These publications are a testament to the organization’s mission to bring objective facts to the public and provide a voice for those who have suffered human rights violations.

Volume 1 includes  foundational reports that delve into the grim realities of Punjab from 1984 to 1994.

  • Smoldering Embers: Long and Futile Wait for Justice. This report presents a stark and factual account of the period marked by a militant agitation for autonomy and a fierce government opposition. It documents the violence and police measures, providing a crucial, objective perspective on the tragic events that cost many lives.
  • The Unending Fight for Human Rights. Authored by Patwant Singh, this report argues that despite India’s impressive progress, it has also violated the fundamental human rights of its citizens. The publication critiques the criminalization of the political class and the legitimized violence used against innocent people, highlighting the vital role of the judiciary and NGOs in upholding the Constitution.

Volume 2 shifts focus to the lasting psychological, social, and legal struggles of families affected by forced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.

  • The Plight of the Left Behind. This report underscores the ongoing trauma for children, spouses, and parents of the disappeared, who are often ostracized and live in fear of police harassment. It reveals how society often dismisses these disappearances as a necessary measure against militancy, ignoring that many victims were innocent
  • A Tale of Two Fights for Justice. The report contrasts the experiences of two women: Paramjeet Kaur Khalra and Gurdev Kaur. Paramjeet, the wife of prominent human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, represents a family with social standing and international support, which has given them the resources and protection to continue their fight. In contrast, Gurdev Kaur, the mother of the lesser-known Bhupinder Singh, lacks these privileges. Her family lives in fear and has given up hope, highlighting how police effectively silence victims by targeting the most capable individuals.

Where to Find the Reports:

You can find all of these reports at major booksellers.

Smoldering Embers: Long and Unending Wait for Justice for the Disappeared in Panjab (Volume 1) 

Smoldering Embers: Long and Unending Wait for Justice for the Disappeared in Panjab (Volume 2)