Nepali Women’s Global Network (NWGN) strongly denounces any form of violence against women. For the past three weeks, NWGN has been closely monitoring and supporting community organizations campaigning to locate Mamata Kafle Bhatt, a 28-year-old pediatric nurse and a mother of a one-year old baby girl, who went missing from Manassas, VA. On August 22, 2024, her husband was arrested and charged by the Commonwealth of Virginia.
We begin by expressing our heartfelt gratitude to the community members and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to find Mamata. The community’s effort in amplifying Mamta’s disappearance through physical/social campaigning and media coverage compelled authorities to take swift action in this case. NWGN demands justice for Mamata and her daughter and urges law enforcement to expedite the investigation to locate Mamata. We extend our deepest sympathy to Mamata’s parents and families during this difficult time.
Mamata’s story is one of too many, where cries for help go unheard. Despite her attempts to reach out to the community for help, she disappeared before getting the help she needed. Tragically, she vanished from her house before she could safely exit from an abusive relationship and secure a safe place for herself and her daughter.
NWGN is calling on the community to stand united in demanding accountability and systemic change to better protect victims of domestic violence. Domestic violence and all forms of violence are deeply abhorrent and fundamentally unacceptable. Such acts are a gross violation of human dignity and rights, inflicting lasting physical and emotional scars on individuals. Violence, in any form, undermines safety, and we must reject and challenge these destructive behaviors. We need to foster a culture of respect, empathy, and non-violence.
Everyone deserves to live free from fear and harm. NWGN urges survivors and victims of domestic violence to seek immediate help without the fear of stigma. The courage to reach out for support is a crucial step towards safety. No person should feel ashamed for seeking assistance. It is the community’s responsibility to meet the seeker with compassion and understanding. Resources and support systems are available to provide protection, guidance, and care, ensuring that survivors receive the help they need to rebuild their lives. It is essential to create an environment where victims are empowered to speak out and seek the necessary support, free from judgment or shame. It is equally important to equip the community with resources and support systematic connections.
NWGN calls on community members, friends, and family to always trust and support survivors when they share their experiences of domestic violence, prioritizing and maintaining their confidentiality. Trusting and believing in survivors is crucial for their empowerment. Evaluating the situation and acting immediately for early intervention in domestic violence cases, is essential to prevent escalation and ensure the safety and well-being of those involved. Respecting privacy and protecting the survivors from unnecessary exposure ensures that they can seek help and support without fear of additional harm or judgment. Ensuring a supportive and confidential environment, affirms the survivor’s courage, helps them navigate their path to safety, and contributes to breaking the cycle of violence.
NWGN is dedicated to advocating for Nepali women’s and their families’ rights and safety. NWGN is willing to collaborate with communities to create a safe environment that guarantees safety, confidentiality, and support for anyone in difficult situations. Whether in Nepal, the U.S., or anywhere in the world, NWGN believes that the work must begin in local communities by initiating dialogue about domestic violence and educating communities. Together we can “Challenge Harmful Norms” and work towards changing societal attitudes, to help minimize domestic violence. We need to support initiatives that promote gender equality and respect in relationships. Let’s join hands to make our communities a safe place for victims and survivors of domestic violence and work towards building a community based on mutual trust and empathy.
Learn more about domestic violence:
Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) | Domestic Violence (justice.gov)
● Call 911 or your country’s emergency number immediately if you or someone else is in immediate danger. Clearly explain the situation and request urgent assistance.
● Or, Call 211 to connect with Resources.
● Seek Shelter. If possible, leave the environment immediately and go to a safe place- a friend or relative’s home, a shelter, or a public place.
● Contact a Domestic Violence Hotline. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (U.S.) is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), or you can text “START” to 88788. Hotlines can provide guidance and support and direct you to resources like shelters or legal assistance.
Remember: It’s vital to prioritize your safety. Leaving a dangerous situation is challenging, but seeking help is the first step toward safety and recovery.
Soni Thapa, PhD
President
Nepali Women’s Global Network
Email: nwgnglobal@gmail.com