Kozhikode (Kerala) | Sunitha Krishnan, a social worker and Padma Shri recipient, has been selected for the national award instituted by Mathrubhumi in memory of its former MD and political leader M P Veerendra Kumar.
A statement issued by the publishing firm on Thursday said the award recognises Krishnan's selfless service to women and children with little or no support.
The recipient was selected by a jury comprising Justice K T Thomas, novelist Sarah Joseph, and veteran journalist T N Sashikumar.
The award, comprising a plaque, a certificate, and Rs 5 lakh, will be presented in Kozhikode on May 28, the anniversary of Veerendra Kumar's passing.
The statement added that Krishnan's organisation, 'Prajwala', continues to provide shelter and support to victims of human trafficking and sexual abuse.
The organisation has helped thousands of women and children rebuild their lives by providing education, legal aid, and vocational training.
The award also honours her leadership in courageous human rights struggles and her efforts to uphold the dignity of survivors. Born in Bengaluru to parents from Palakkad, Krishnan survived sexual assault during her teenage years. Undeterred, she completed her education and dedicated her life to helping others in similar circumstances, the statement said.
Mathrubhumi Chairman and Managing Editor P V Chandran and Managing Director M V Shreyams Kumar said that prominent personalities, including Rajya Sabha MP and writer Jairam Ramesh and Justice K Chandru, will attend the award ceremony.
Veerendra Kumar had served three terms as chairman of the Press Trust of India and, at the time of his death in 2020, was a member of the agency's board of directors.
