Khalida Parveen is a distinguished 66-year-old social worker and women’s rights advocate from Hyderabad, India. With a background in pharmacy, she transitioned to full-time activism over three decades ago, dedicating her life to social justice and empowerment. Her journey began in 1989 with the organisation Jamat-E-Islami Hind, where she served for over a decade, laying the groundwork for her future endeavours in community organising and advocacy.
In 2005, Parveen co-founded the Amoomat Society in Hyderabad, where she serves as General Secretary. This non-governmental organisation is the cornerstone of her work, focusing on the multifaceted needs of women, especially those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The society offers a comprehensive suite of services, including family and pre-marital counselling, matrimonial services, legal aid for victims of domestic violence, and educational support for female students. Parveen’s approach to fundraising is noted for its transparency; she seeks only the precise funds required for a project, building immense trust within the community and among donors.
Parveen’s activism extends beyond her organisation’s daily operations into critical social and humanitarian responses. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she demonstrated remarkable leadership by distributing thousands of food packets and masks. Her most lauded initiative was a free ambulance service to transport the bodies of COVID-19 victims, a crucial service for families who could not afford the exorbitant fees charged by private operators. This aid was provided to all, irrespective of religion or caste, reflecting her core belief in shared humanity. Similarly, during floods in Hyderabad, her organisation provided essential relief, including groceries, shelter, and educational equipment to help students continue their studies online.
A vocal advocate for social justice, Khalida Parveen was a prominent figure in the protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC). Her steadfast activism led to multiple police detentions, but she remained undeterred.
Parveen defines women’s empowerment as a woman’s right to be part of every decision-making process, from the local municipal level to the national parliament. Her work has been recognised by organisations like the Rotary Club. Through her tireless efforts with the Amoomat Society and her association with the Women Education and Empowerment Trust (TWEET), Khalida Parveen continues to create a lasting legacy. Her life’s work serves as a powerful testament to the impact of persistent, grassroots activism in addressing systemic inequality and building a more just society.