Vivek’s childhood was trapped in a vicious cycle of poverty. He came from a low income family and his father was alcohol-dependent. The sight of his drunken father beating his mother was a daily occurrence. Whenever this happened, Vivek would scuttle into a dark corner of the household and close his eyes and ears to the horrific scene being played out  endlessly every day.
One day, however, he decided to speak up for his mother. Gathering all the courage, he confronted his father. “I will not got to school if you drink and create unhappiness at home.â€
This was a turning point for the family. Vivek candidly admits that initially he was terrified of his father; especially when he was drunk.
“Although I hated his behaviour, I was too scared to do anything. However, the Human Rights Education gave me the self-confidence, courage and skills to take this bold step,†says Vivek.
Vivek’s father was shocked at his son’s bold stance. Slowly it dawned on him that his alcohol-dependent behaviour was impacting his son and wife negatively. Gradually he reduced his dependence on alcohol and began to treat his son and wife with respect and love.