29th September 2026: Community Leadership & Policy Dialogue for Marginalized Communities organised by Solidarity Foundation and Alliance of Grassroots Collectives

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

A Community Leadership & Policy Dialogue for Marginalized Communities in Karnataka was organised by Best Practices Foundation and the Alliance of Grassroots Collectives (AGC) on 29 September 2026 at Vishranthi Nilayam, CISC Women’s House, 9, Infant Road, Sampangi Rama Nagar, Bengaluru.

The dialogue brought together grassroots leaders, activists and representatives working with marginalized communities, including LGBTQIA+ persons, sex workers, persons with disabilities, Muslim women and Dalit women. The programme focused on institutional strengthening, leadership building, access to social entitlements, prevention of gender-based violence, networking and strengthening engagement with government departments.

Dhwani Legal Trust was invited as a special invitee. Adv. Archana addressed the gathering on the significance of the Constitution and the role of law in attaining social justice. She spoke about the themes of “My Body, My Right, My Life,” emphasising the importance of bodily autonomy, dignity, equality and the right of every individual to make decisions concerning their own lives. She highlighted how constitutional values and legal rights can serve as important tools for challenging discrimination and addressing social inequalities.

The programme also provided an opportunity for participants to share their experiences and challenges in advocating for rights and accessing government support. The discussions highlighted the need for stronger institutional mechanisms, awareness of legal rights and greater collaboration between grassroots organisations and government departments.

The Assistant Director of the Child and Women Welfare Department Mrs. Sunanda was present at the programme, along with counsellors working with people affected by HIV. Their participation contributed to discussions on the challenges faced by vulnerable communities and the importance of coordinated support systems focusing on the schemes available to these communities.

The dialogue created a meaningful space for community representatives to exchange experiences, understand available legal and institutional mechanisms, and identify areas for collective action. Overall, the programme reinforced the importance of constitutional rights, law, community leadership and institutional support in advancing equality, dignity and social justice for marginalized communities.