Create a more Just World by December 10-Divya Khosla

Ajay Verma is a lawyer and IBJ Fellow based in Delhi. Ajay risks his life daily to defend the legal rights of Indians who have been detained and tortured - people who have no way to defend themselves.

Ajay grew up in India, with a limited idea about the nature of India’s Criminal Justice system. When a close friend of his became a victim of torture at the hands of police authorities Ajay heard his calling to become a human rights activist.

Deeply disturbed by this event, Ajay dedicated his life to instilling change in India’s Human Rights-Criminal Justice system. Since 2001 he has provided free legal assistance to the poorest communities in Delhi through his own private law practice. Ajay has led several criminal defense workshops for lawyers, focusing on the importance of prisoners having early access to legal counsel and what lawyers need to do to succeed in freeing prisoners.

66% of prisoners in India are simply awaiting a trial, and prisons are at 141% over capacity. Ajay’s work has become a critical part of India’s Human Rights-Criminal Justice system. Ajay’s work has succeeded in freeing dozens of prisoners, including a successful filing for appeal for a client sentenced to ten years of imprisonment, which led to a reunion with her estranged husband. Ajay puts his life on the line each and every day, and his dedication to the development of effective legal representation and the eradication of torture make Ajay crucial to advancing legal rights in India.

Ajay needs your help and support to carry out his vision of an independent legal system that protects human rights instead of violating legal rights and creating a country of fear.
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Every day, IBJ Fellows take huge risks for the defense of legal rights around the world. Their programs are under constant threat of running out of money.

Despite the risks they face for their courageous work, they cannot create significant, long-lasting legal changes without adequate funding and resources. Help them realize their goals by rallying in support of their uncompromising dedication to human rights.

Your Pledge:

During this campaign, your donations will be matched by up to $125,000 through the generous funding of private donors.

My goal is to raise $300 between now and December 10th, 2009, Human Rights Day, in order to support these Fellows and the changes they strive tirelessly to achieve.

Save lives and create a more just world by December 10 – contribute now!