Jitendra’s journey, a testament to resilience and unwavering determination, is the very foundation upon which the Blind Lead Trust (BLT) was built. His story, rooted in the harsh realities of rural life and the pervasive discrimination faced by individuals with disabilities, illuminates the profound need for organizations like BLT. It is a narrative of personal struggle transformed into a powerful force for social change.
Jitendra’s early life in his village was marked by hardship. As a young, visually impaired man, he labored alongside his family, contributing to their meager income by performing manual tasks and sifting sand from the river. His dedication to supporting his mother, procuring essential household items, underscored his unwavering commitment to his family. This dedication, however, was met with systemic barriers. When he attempted to participate in the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) scheme, his inability to perform tasks at the same pace as his sighted counterparts led to his expulsion, punctuated by the harsh words and disdain of village leaders. This experience, a stark reminder of the prejudice he faced, left him deeply wounded, fueling a sense of injustice and isolation.
Further compounding his challenges was the struggle to open a bank account. Despite the government’s mandate for him to receive benefits, the local State Bank of India branch initially refused, citing his blindness as a risk. This blatant denial of his basic rights ignited a fire within him. He fought tirelessly, demanding recognition and equality, ultimately overcoming the bureaucratic hurdles. These experiences, marked by both adversity and triumph, shaped his understanding of the systemic discrimination faced by people with disabilities.
It was in the quiet reflection following these struggles that the seeds of BLT were sown. Jitendra began to contemplate the plight of others with disabilities, questioning their ability to navigate similar challenges. He wondered if they, too, were denied opportunities and forced to endure the same indignities. This contemplation sparked a profound desire to create an organization that would champion their rights and provide them with the support they so desperately needed.
However, Jitendra faced a significant obstacle: a lack of formal education and organizational experience. He had longed for education, even attempting to learn by following his neighbors to school, only to be turned away. Despite these setbacks, he persevered, listening to lessons from outside the classroom, demonstrating an unyielding thirst for knowledge. The dismissive attitude of his community, who often referred to him simply as “the blind man,” further fueled his resolve.
His breakthrough came through his connection with the late Dr. Theodore Moallem, a biological engineer from MIT. Dr. Moallem’s mentorship provided Jitendra with invaluable guidance and support. He taught him practical skills, introduced him to technology, and, most importantly, instilled in him the confidence to pursue his vision. With Dr. Moallem’s encouragement, Jitendra, along with a dedicated translator, began the arduous process of registering BLT. The organization was officially registered on June 26, 2018, with five other trustees, marking the culmination of Jitendra’s personal journey into a collective mission.
The early days of BLT were marked by both progress and hardship. Dr. Moallem’s presence provided crucial financial and operational support, enabling the organization to flourish. However, the challenges persisted. Discrimination, even within their own rented accommodation, became a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle. The unjust arrest of Dr. Moallem, following a dispute with their landlord, exposed the vulnerability of the marginalized community and the systemic failures of the justice system.
Following Dr. Moallem’s untimely death in 2021, Jitendra faced immense financial and operational challenges. Despite these setbacks, he remained committed to BLT’s mission. He sought support from friends and allies, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to the organization’s goals. Yet, the financial constraints continued to hinder BLT’s progress, impacting Jitendra’s personal life and his ability to provide for his family.
Despite these hardships, Jitendra’s vision for BLT remains steadfast. He envisions a world where individuals with disabilities are empowered to live fulfilling lives, free from discrimination and barriers. His commitment to advocating for policy change, providing education and training, fostering community support, and developing innovative solutions underscores his unwavering dedication to creating a more inclusive society. Jitendra’s story, from a young laborer facing adversity to a co-founder of a vital organization, is a powerful testament to the transformative potential of resilience, vision, and unwavering commitment to social justice. His journey is the heart and soul of the Blind Lead Trust, a beacon of hope for individuals with disabilities.