Justice Initiative Foundation
Works with convicts, in-prison and post-release, especially women, to enable them to live their lives with confidence, dignity and a sense of belonging
About
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Headquarters
Bangalore, Karnataka
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Since
2020
Established by a community advocating for human dignity, respect, and grace, Justice Initiative Foundation or The Justice Initiative (TJI) focuses on Read morecreating inclusive spaces inside and outside the Central Prisons in Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Shivamogga (Shimoga). These spaces provide a sense of belonging and community, supporting lives rebuilt, restored, and reconciled. While TJI's work is not gender-specific, the organisation currently concentrates on women's life convicts due to their vulnerability to stigmatization and rejection both in prison and post-release. These women carry gender-specific psychological traumas, necessitating tailored rehabilitative programmes. Despite their life sentences, many of these women have survived domestic violence, sexual and marital abuse, rape, and child marriage. Denial of fundamental rights, such as access to food, education, and health, further compounds their struggles. TJI collaborates with the Indian justice system, offering accessible programmes that promote holistic well-being and societal reintegration. The organisation has received permission from the Government of Karnataka's Department of Prisons and Correctional Services to conduct Mental Health Workshops and Creative Expression Training in the women's sections of Central Prisons. Following their release, TJI integrates these women into the Collective, a peer group facilitating their transition into post-prison life. The Echoes programme enables in-prison and released life convicts to share their stories, reflecting on their experiences and ongoing journeys.
Cause Area
Sub Sector
Impact
TJI is working in 3 central prisons of Bengaluru, Mysuru and Shimoga districts of Karnataka.
Programs
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In - Prison Programmes
The Mental Health Workshops by TJI focus on restoring prisoners' self-image and helping them understand that they are not defined by their crimes. It uses theatre, art, and interactive games to promote healing and strength, preparing prisoners for healthier lives after release. The Theatre of the Oppressed model encourages envisioning concrete actions and collective transformation. TJI also empowers released individuals to provide emotional support to those still in prison. Creative Expression Training in macrame, quilling, embroidery, etc., allows women to explore their creative side and find stability, purpose, and positive engagement. Proceeds from marketing these products benefit the women themselves. These workshops and trainings are conducted in all three Central Prisons.
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Post - Release Programmes
The TJI Collective offers crucial support to released life convicts, addressing post-release stigma and social barriers. It uses a 4-part approach: peer group support, processes towards wholeness, platforms for expression, and progress towards fullness. The Collective facilitates camaraderie among peers through visits and outings, engages in healing activities like dance and theatre, and encourages creative expression for sharing and unburdening. Thorough documentation and mentoring support aid individuals' progress. The Guest Centre provides a space for released women convicts in distress or for group meetings. Echoes promotes storytelling as a cathartic transformation tool and raises awareness about the challenges faced by released convicts, advocating for societal acceptance.
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Research and Advocacy Programme
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Student Associate Programme
Leadership Team
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Cecilia Davies
Executive Director
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Kunal Ambasta
Director
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Siddharth Sangameswaran
Director
Demographics & Structure
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No. of Employees
6-20
M&E
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Internal, External Assessors
No
Policies
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Ethics and Transparency Policies
No
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Formal CEO Oversight & Compensation Policy
No
Political & Religious Declarations
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On Affiliation if any
No
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On Deployment Bias if any
No
Registration Details
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Registration ID
U85320KA2020NPL141154
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FCRA
Not Available
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CSR Registration Number
Not Available
Location
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Headquarters
#24, CB-8, Indian Social Institute, Benson Road, Benson Town, Bangalore, 560046
Directions
Other Details
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Type & Sub Type
Non-profit
Section 8 (formerly Section 25)