Draft:Vijaya Singh

Vijaya Singh

Vijaya Singh is a renowned social reformer and political figure from Bihar and Jharkhand, India. She has been actively involved in politics since the JP Movement of 1974 and played a key role in numerous social welfare initiatives, women’s rights advocacy, and humanitarian efforts. Over the years, she has held various leadership positions in political parties, worked for human rights, and fought for the upliftment of marginalized communities. In 2016, she was appointed as the President of the Human Rights Commission for Bihar and Jharkhand. Her legacy continues to inspire future generations in Indian politics and social reform.

Early Life and Background

Vijaya Singh is a prominent social reformer and political figure from Bihar and Jharkhand, India. She was born into a family deeply involved in India's freedom struggle. Her father, Late Dr. Shatrughan Singh, was a freedom fighter. She is married to Mr. Jai Nandan Singh, who has held key positions as General Secretary of the State Bank of India Staff Association, Patna Circle (Bihar-Jharkhand) and Chief Secretary of the State Bank of India Staff Association (7 circles). His father, Late Ram Charitra Singh, was also a noted freedom fighter.

Education

Vijaya Singh pursued a Graduate degree in Psychology before embarking on her political career. Her education played a foundational role in shaping her progressive outlook and dedication to social activism.

Social Welfare and Relief Work

• 2003: Organized large-scale flood relief efforts in Gaighat, Muzaffarpur, distributing clothing to over 10,000 people and providing food service for 30 days. She also mobilized a team of 100 doctors to provide medical aid and distributed medicines to the affected people.
• 2004: Conducted another flood relief program in Gaya, ensuring that essential medicines reached those in need. The relief efforts were carried out with the approval and support of Nitish Kumar.
• Gaighat Katra Vikas Morcha: Established this organization to improve rural infrastructure, including electricity access and water facilities, directly benefiting thousands of underprivileged families. Her efforts led to the first electricity connection in the Gaighat assembly constituency.
• Led protests against violence against women, notably in the Kolhua Paigambarpur rape case, where she was seriously injured and arrested while leading demonstrations.

Political Career

• Joined the JP Movement in 1974, actively working under the guidance ofJayaprakash Narayan, who frequently consulted her on strategic matters. She was jailed for two months in Hazaribagh for participating in Satyagraha against Indira Gandhi.
• Arrested and tortured by police during the Emergency in 1975, spending three months in jail for her resistance against authoritarian rule.
• Elected as the State President of the Student Youth Struggle Committee in 1976, a role in which she mobilized youth for social and political change.
• Served as General Secretary of the State Janata Party (Women's Wing) from 1977 to 1980, advocating for women’s rights and political empowerment.
• Contested elections from Gaighat (Muzaffarpur) Assembly Constituency in 1980 and 1985 on the Janata Party ticket, demonstrating her strong grassroots connection.
• Appointed as Organization Secretary of Janata Party Bihar State in 1983, playing a crucial role in the party’s state-wide organizational development.
• Served as a member of the Yuva Janata National Executive from 1980 to 1985, where she worked on youth empowerment policies.
• Represented India at the Youth Festival in Moscow, Soviet Union, in 1986, highlighting Indian political and social issues at an international platform.
• Joined Lok Janshakti Party and served as National General Secretary, overseeing party affairs in Bihar and Jharkhand.
• Joined Janata Dal United in 2004 after being personally invited byNitish Kumar, who visited her residence to convince her to join the party.

Later Career and Leadership

In 2016, Vijaya Singh was appointed as the Human Rights Commission for Bihar and Jharkhand. In this role, she has actively worked to address human rights violations, advocate for social justice, and promote social equality across the region.

Legacy

Vijaya Singh remains a dedicated leader committed to social reform, women’s rights, and grassroots development in Bihar and Jharkhand. Her relentless activism, political leadership, and humanitarian efforts continue to inspire future generations, making her a respected figure in Indian political and social movements. Through her unwavering commitment, she has shaped policies that have impacted the lives of many, particularly marginalized communities.

Personal Life

After 28 years of marriage and facing multiple miscarriages, Vijaya Singh gave birth to her son, Kumar Rounak. His birth was seen as a miracle in the family, bringing immense joy after years of hardship.