The Last Defender

2023 ‧ Channel News Asia ‧ 47m

In the ecologically sensitive Himalayan Uttarakhand, India, a group of women is protesting a stone-crushing plant being built in their village. Despite being threatened by the mining mafia, they continue to fight for their land, forest, water, and a safe future for their children. This India episode of The Last Defender is broadcasted on Channel News Asia.

Srishti Lakhera

Director, Writer, Producer

Amith Surendran

Cinematographer

Syahirah A. Karim

Series Producer

Darshan Karunamoorthy

Editor

Director’s Statement

I was deeply moved by the unity and collective effort demonstrated by the women of Jabar Kot village as they stood resolutely against big industrialists to protect their land, forest, and water. It has been a year since these 30 courageous women initiated their peaceful resistance by physically obstructing the construction of a stone crusher plant in their village. Their determination and strength as a cohesive group have allowed them to sustain the movement for such an extended period.

I was fascinated by this group of women who were fighting for their simple demands to continue living in their natural environment, uninterrupted by the greed of development but rather a desire to continue living in harmony with their mountain surroundings and to preserve their dignity.

I have high hopes that this will shed light on the inspiring story of these brave women who have been tirelessly protesting against the construction of the stone crusher plant. Their protest is not just about preserving their quality of life, but also safeguarding the vital elements of their existence – fresh air, water, and forest.

I believe that by sharing this powerful narrative, we can ignite a sense of inspiration and empowerment among the people of Uttarakhand, a state in the Himalayan region of India. These women’s struggle reflects the larger fight for the rights of mountain communities and the call for sustainable development in the region.

My aim is to use this story as a catalyst to awaken empathy among the citizens of the state and the country, urging them to question the prevailing system and political culture. I hope that the audience can relate to the characters in the episode and see themselves in a similar situation, realising the significance of standing up for their beliefs and the environment they cherish.