Our Story
Founded in 2008, DISHA was created to address the critical gaps in India’s criminal justice system - ensuring that victims of crime are not left behind. While legal proceedings focus on punishing offenders, victims often struggle with trauma, financial loss, and social isolation. We bridge this gap by providing legal aid, victim rehabilitation, and policy advocacy to ensure justice extends beyond judgement.
Our journey has led to significant systemic changes. In 2011 and again in 2013, DISHA filed Public Interest Litigations urging the Maharashtra Government to implement the Victim Compensation Scheme under Section 357A of the Criminal Procedure Code. These efforts culminated in the enactment of the Maharashtra Victim Compensation Scheme 2014, which institutionalized financial and rehabilitative support for victims of serious crimes. Since then, DISHA has continued to work on strengthening and expanding the scope of the scheme through persistent legal and policy advocacy.
Our initiatives are aimed at creating impact by not only offering legal assistance and psycho-social support but also by influencing systemic reforms that embed victim-centric perspectives into state-level justice mechanisms. At DISHA, we believe justice is not just a legal outcome but a path toward healing and empowerment.
Our Vision
To ensure that victims’ rights are recognized and integrated into substantive law and that rehabilitation is an essential component of judicial outcomes within the criminal justice system.
Our Mission
To advocate for and implement policies and programs that strengthen victim rights, ensure legal access, and promote rehabilitation - creating a responsive and victim-centric justice system.
Our Values
- Empathy Understanding and prioritizing the needs of victims.
- Integrity Upholding justice and fairness in all our initiatives.
- Collaboration Partnering with legal authorities, communities, and stakeholders for lasting impact.
- Empowerment Equipping victims with the tools and resources to rebuild their lives.
- Advocacy Driving systemic change for victim rights and justice reform.
Our Areas of Work
Access to Justice
Ensuring every victim, regardless of background, has the legal support and resources needed to seek justice.
Responsive Criminal Justice
Building a victim-centric legal system that prioritizes fairness, sensitivity, and timely redressal.
Crime Prevention & Awareness
Empowering communities with knowledge and proactive measures to reduce crime and protect vulnerable populations.
Child Protection
Safeguarding children from abuse, exploitation, and violence through legal intervention and community support.
Victim Compensation
Advocating for financial and rehabilitative support.
