Bilkis Dadi - A Lifestory

Bilkis Dadi, an elderly woman who emerged as a prominent figure during the 2019 protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in India, became a symbol of resilience and resistance. She was one of the many women who participated in a continuous sitin protest at Shaheen Bagh, a neighborhood in Delhi, against the controversial legislation. The protests, largely led by Muslim women, gained significant national and international attention, highlighting concerns about the CAA's potential discriminatory impact on religious minorities.

Bilkis Dadi, often referred to simply as "Dadi" (grandmother), captivated the public with her unwavering commitment to the cause despite her advanced age. She was frequently seen at the protest site, offering words of encouragement and solidarity to fellow demonstrators. Her presence became a powerful image of intergenerational activism and the determination of ordinary citizens to defend their rights. Dadi's participation challenged prevailing narratives about elderly women and their role in public life, demonstrating their capacity for political engagement and leadership.

Her visibility at Shaheen Bagh brought her recognition beyond the protest site. She was featured in numerous media reports, interviews, and documentaries, solidifying her status as an icon of the antiCAA/NRC movement. Time magazine recognized her as one of the 100 most influential people of 2020, acknowledging her significant impact on the political landscape. While the protests were eventually dispersed due to the COVID19 pandemic, Bilkis Dadi's legacy as a symbol of peaceful resistance and unwavering dedication to justice continues to resonate. She embodies the spirit of civic engagement and the power of ordinary individuals to challenge perceived injustices.