In a remarkable turn of events, Bhavna Kesar, a resident of Naushera, Jammu & Kashmir, became the first woman from the Rajouri district to pass the judicial civil services test on April 5. The daughter of a tailor, she broke all societal barriers, coming from a region that was formerly notorious for its turbulent history of riots, terrorism, stone-pelting, and unrest.
With much hoopla, the people of Naushera greeted the trailblazer and showered her with flowers and confetti. Bhavna’s accomplishments are an indication of the evolution of gender equality in Kashmir; girls who were formerly compelled to drop out of school due to unrest are now pursuing higher education and shining a light on the region via their accomplishments.
Although Bhavna is pleased with her accomplishment, she hopes for more women to dream big and pursue law. Prior to studying law, Bhavna Kesar used to assist her father at his shop. She completed her schooling at the TMP School, Naushera, and subsequently went to college in Punjab. She completed her legal studies at Punjab University in Chandigarh, where she also pursued a Master of Law degree. She passed the exam to become a judge while she was employed at J&K High Court as a reader.
Bhavna passed the judicial exam and became the first woman from Rajouri to hold the position of judge, mainly because of the support from her family and her constant dedication.
Bhavna believes that one has to seek motivation from within instead of looking for it from an external source. She emphasises that her father’s modest income as a tailor never inhibited her from pursuing her studies; she credits her family for her accomplishment. Their steadfast support demonstrated their conviction that education is vital for everyone, regardless of gender.
Image source: Kashmire life, Rising Kashmir