In the vibrant and culturally rich state of Tamil Nadu in southern India, Sister Johncy Nambikairaj and her compassionate group of religious sisters are on a mission to care for women who have been victims of abuse. Their dedication extends to prevention efforts and raising awareness, a challenging but vital task.
By Anne Preckel
Survivors of abuse often express feelings of rejection and isolation, wondering why they are treated differently after their traumatic experiences. Sister Johncy shared in an interview with Vatican News that victims and their families often face stigma and judgement once the abuse comes to light.
Sister Johncy, a social worker based in the mountainous community of Gudalur in Tamil Nadu, provides support to children from impoverished backgrounds who have been subjected to various forms of abuse. The Sisters of Charity of Saints Bartolomea Capitanio and Vincenza Gerosa, also known as the Sisters of Maria Bambina, offer a safe haven for these vulnerable individuals, providing care, first aid, and counseling.
“Poverty and neglect create an environment ripe for abuse,” Sister Johncy explained, highlighting the social factors that contribute to the vulnerability of these children. Lack of privacy, parental absence due to work, and economic hardship all play a role in leaving minors susceptible to abuse by neighbors or acquaintances.
Despite being one of India’s more industrialized states, Tamil Nadu still grapples with social issues like child labor, malnutrition, and abuse. Sister Johncy emphasized the deep emotional scars that abuse leaves on children, even when they appear outwardly unaffected.
Currently caring for 50 young women and girls, many of whom are orphaned or semi-orphaned, Sister Johncy’s congregation offers shelter and education to those in need. However, the lack of therapeutic resources means that some must return to unsafe environments, underscoring the urgent need for intervention.
To reach more victims, the Sisters of Maria Bambina operate a hotline, “ChildLine 1098,” where cases of abuse can be reported by victims or concerned citizens. Sister Johncy acknowledged the cultural taboo surrounding abuse in India, making it challenging to address and leading to underreporting of incidents.
Efforts to combat abuse include recent legislative changes in India, aimed at expediting the handling of cases by law enforcement and the judiciary. The Catholic Church in India is actively engaged in awareness-raising initiatives and providing support to survivors, with Sister Johncy receiving specialized training in Rome to enhance her work back in India.
Through community outreach programs and educational workshops, Sister Johncy strives to empower children and parents to speak out against abuse. While progress may be slow, the impact of these efforts is beginning to be felt, encouraging more open dialogue about this sensitive issue.
Despite being a religious minority in India, the Catholic Church plays a significant role in social welfare, education, and healthcare. With a strong network and commitment to safeguarding vulnerable populations, the Church’s influence extends far beyond India, offering hope and support to those in need worldwide.
