Sociologist Meena Poudel has released her latest book, ‘Sahas’, which delves into the experiences of women who have returned after being trafficked. The book, based on research involving 28 women from 18 districts, has been published by Kitab Publishers. Speaking at the book launch event in Kathmandu on Friday, Poudel described ‘Sahas’ not just as a book but as a voice of resistance against human trafficking. She credited editor Paras Prakash Nepal for his support in shaping the final manuscript.  

Commenting on the book, gender analyst Bindu Pokharel remarked that Nepal’s women’s movement has yet to become strategically effective, which has hindered the elimination of structural discrimination in society. She noted that the book highlights the challenges faced by survivors in reintegrating into society. Anthropologist Suresh Dhakal pointed out that the book vividly portrays the marginalization and discrimination that trafficked women endure upon their return. Similarly, writer JB Bishwokarma stated that ‘Sahas’ reflects the oppression faced by vulnerable communities in Nepal. He suggested that incorporating socialist feminism perspectives would have further enriched the book.  

Before its release in Nepali, ‘Sahas’ had already been published in six languages, including English, Spanish, and German. The book challenges traditional perceptions of human trafficking in Nepal, offering a contemporary understanding of its dimensions. It also examines the strategies of resistance employed by trafficked women against the social, economic, political, and legal exclusion they face. During the event, women’s rights activists Durga Ghimire and Bhagwati Nepal were also honored for their contributions to gender equality and social justice.