Mumbai: Amid rising rape cases making headlines across India, actor-activist Somy Ali has voiced deep concern, drawing from her extensive experience working with survivors through her NGO, No More Tears.
“Every time a new case comes to light, my heart breaks because I too am a survivor,” she said, highlighting the emotional toll such incidents take on her. “I know the pain, the shame, the fear, and the silence that follows.”
According to her, the most recurring pattern across cases is the silence survivors are forced into. “The most common thing I see — whether the survivor is a woman, a man, a child, or from the LGBTQ+IA community — is silence born out of fear and societal pressure,” she explained.
Stressing the importance of consent, she added, “When someone says no, it means no. Consent must be enthusiastic and ongoing, in every relationship, every situation, and every community.”
On tackling the crisis, Somy emphasized the urgent need for systemic reform. “We need fast, certain, and harsh justice — cases decided in weeks or months, not years and decades. Police, judiciary, and society must be sensitised to understand that sexual violence affects people across all ages, genders, and orientations.”
She also underlined the importance of early education. “We must teach our children — boys, girls, and everyone in the LGBTQ+IA spectrum — about respect, consent, and equality from a young age. We must stop victim-blaming and protect the survivor’s dignity above everything else.”
Speaking about the work done by No More Tears, Somy described a long-term, survivor-centric approach. “We talk and walk with them for years, not just days. When a survivor reaches us — often broken, sometimes suicidal — we first ensure their safety. Then we provide trauma-informed counselling, medical care, and legal support.”
The NGO has also helped survivors rebuild their lives through shelter, education, and financial independence. “Many have gone on to become teachers, nurses, entrepreneurs, and powerful advocates. One even completed her doctorate,” she shared, adding that inclusivity remains central to their mission. “We have supported survivors from every background, including members of the LGBTQ+IA community who often face additional stigma.”
At the heart of their work, she says, is compassion and reassurance. “We give them love, acceptance, and a new family. We tell them every single day: ‘What happened to you was not your fault. You are strong, and your life is just beginning.’”
Ending with a message of solidarity, Somy said, “To every survivor — woman, man, boy, girl, trans, queer, or anyone — please know you are not alone. Reach out to No More Tears. We will fight for you, heal with you, and rise with you. You deserve justice, healing, safety, and a life of dignity.”
“Jai Hind.”
