Debkishore Chakraborty/Kolkata

In the heart of Kolkata, where social challenges and urban struggles often collide, one man’s vision has been quietly transforming lives. Golam Faruk exemplifies the timeless truth that “with willpower and sincere initiative, society can be changed.”

Navigating countless obstacles, Faruk has confronted social decay head-on, turning adversity into opportunity and offering hope to the marginalized. Today, he is not just a humanitarian but a guiding force whose relentless efforts have left tangible marks across the city.

Faruk’s journey into social service began with a deeply personal commitment to human welfare. Under his leadership, the organization Rights for All has grown far beyond the boundaries of a conventional charity.

Golam Faruk with volunteers

It has become a movement—a living promise to uphold justice, dignity, and equality for every segment of society. Alongside him is his wife, Geeti Hakim, whose unwavering support and leadership as State President complement Faruk’s role as General Secretary. Together, they have dedicated themselves to amplifying the voices of those often unheard, turning compassion into action.

The genesis of Rights for All coincided with one of the most challenging periods in recent history. In 2023, the COVID-19 pandemic brought West Bengal to a halt, leaving thousands unemployed during prolonged lockdowns.

Amid this uncertainty, Faruk saw an opportunity to channel resources and energy toward social welfare. “Our aim,” he tells Awaz The Voice, “is to uphold the dignity of every individual while amplifying the voices of the voiceless. Through our initiatives in West Bengal and beyond, we strive to ensure that social rights reach everyone.”

Golam Faruk and Geeti Hakim

The organization’s reach is both broad and impactful, encompassing initiatives across human rights, peace-building, women’s empowerment, children’s rights, men’s rights, transgender advocacy, senior citizen welfare, disability rights, labour rights, consumer protection, education, health and family welfare, community development, animal welfare, and environmental conservation.

In this vast canvas of social work each department is managed by dedicated professionals, ensuring that every initiative meets the highest standards of effectiveness and integrity.

Among its flagship campaigns is the Clean Kolkata Drive, aimed at transforming the city into a garbage-free urban space. In collaboration with Eastern Railway, a landmark awareness event was held at Kolkata Railway Station, attended by senior railway officials, including the Divisional Railway Manager.

The event, graced by the presence of Padma Bhushan awardee Usha Uthup, emphasized civic responsibility and distributed informational materials to daily commuters, raising awareness about cleanliness and environmental stewardship.

Recognizing the urgent need to protect youth from substance abuse, Faruk organizes events on International Anti-Drug Day. Collaborating with the South Division of Kolkata Police, Rights for All conducts campaigns and drives against drugs, attracting participation from city dignitaries, politicians, actors, sports organizers, and students from elite schools—demonstrating a rare model of broad-based community engagement.

The organization has also championed environmental consciousness through initiatives like the Plastic-Free Campaign in South Kolkata’s Chetla area, in partnership with NCC cadets and the Kolkata Municipal Corporation. Through public awareness drives, they inspire citizens to adopt sustainable practices, fostering a culture of responsibility and eco-conscious living.

Faruk emphasizes holistic well-being alongside social and environmental work. On International Yoga Day, in partnership with the Indian Museum, the organization hosts yoga camps to promote physical and mental health, reinforcing the importance of wellness as a pillar of societal progress.

Education and exposure form another core focus. Through the Street to Museum Drive, underprivileged children are provided with educational excursions to the Indian Museum, participating in interactive sessions on history and science. During the lockdown, the organization ensured that over 500 marginalized individuals received daily food supplies, exemplifying practical compassion in times of crisis.

Women’s empowerment remains central to the organization’s mission. Geeti Hakim explains, “We regularly conduct awareness campaigns on women’s rights, with special focus on Muslim communities, ensuring that women understand and can assert their rights confidently.”

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Under the inspiring leadership of Golam Faruk and Geeti Hakim, Rights for All continues to serve as a beacon of justice, inclusion, and human dignity. Their tireless efforts ensure that the most vulnerable citizens are not only heard but empowered, embodying a vision of society where compassion and action go hand in hand.