Last week, Satinath Sarangi and Safreen Khan from Bhopal were invited to speak at Unison’s 2013 National Delegate Conference in Liverpool.
Safreen Khan – whose parents were affected by the 1984 disaster was representing the International Campaign for Justice in Bhopal – and Satinath Sarangi – Managing Trustee of the Sambhavna Trust Clinic that treats those affected by the disaster – were welcomed to address a fringe meeting as part of the conference.
The Bhopal Medical Appeal funds the Sambhavna Trust Clinic and the Chingari Rehabilitation Centre which are the only places where those affected by the gas and water contamination in the city can access free healthcare.
The BMA also supports the International Campaign for Justice in Bhopal (ICJB) which campaigns to achieve justice and a life of dignity for the survivors of the Union Carbide Disaster in Bhopal, which includes all affected by the gas leak of 1984 and the subsequent soil and water contamination and children who are born damaged as a result of their parents’ exposure. They continue to put pressure on Union Carbide’s owner Dow Chemical to take responsibility for the disaster and to provide remediation to the site which continues to poison local residents.
An incredible reception was provided for Safreen and Sathyu, from a packed audience. Their words clearly touched hearts as several of the delegates in the room were moved to tears.
Our thanks go to Steve Stott, and James Rupa, for giving us this opportunity, and to all of the new friends we made during the conference. We look forward to moving forward with UNISON and forging a long and fruitful relationship.
You can find out more about the International Campaign for Justice here
