‘NSCW envisions Naga women to be in safe environment’

September 27, 2024 3 Views No Comment

Awareness prog on functioning of legal aid cell conducted

Dimapur, September 27 (MExN): An awareness programme on the functioning of the legal aid cell was organised by Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW) at Hotel Saramati, Dimapur on September 25. The commission in a press release stated that the event focused on legal provisions and protection mechanisms available for women and children’s safety, security, and justice.

The programme was attended by representatives from tribal men hohos, women hohos, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) of Dimapur, DUCCF members, colony council reps and NGOs working for the welfare of women and children. The initiative aimed to equip these stakeholders with the necessary knowledge to better support women’s rights and child protection in the community.

W Nginyeih Konyak, Chairperson NSCW in her keynote address said that the NSCW is devoted towards women empowerment. Since its inception the Commission has kept abreast of debates, developments and discourses on gender related issues at both national and international level so as to shed light at the State/local level. The Commission draws the concept of women empowerment and gender equality as delineated by the United Nations and that enshrined in the Indian constitution.

She also stated that NSCW envisions Naga women to be in a safe environment, knowledgeable about her rights and entitlements and pursuing her chosen occupation in life with great freedom.

While addressing she said it has been formed to create State-wide awareness of women rights to access legal protection and redressal in situations where their rights are being violated and to reach Naga women from all backgrounds, rural or urban with information about the assistance and guidance available at NSCW.

She also mentioned that it further aims to enlighten Naga women on equal opportunities in all areas of life and provide help to women victims of sexual harassment in the workplace, human trafficking, prostitution, blackmail, cyber-crimes and domestic violence.

Apart from that she said the Commission also conducts various study and research among which are to codify the customary laws relating to Naga women, family institutions, social security for women and children and for protecting against children particularly girl children from being rendered as orphans.

Apart from that it is entitled to study or research and report on the conditions of women in general, at private and public workplaces in Jails, remand homes and other places of custody to ameliorate their conditions against atrocities and Human Rights Violations.

Konyak also highlighted it also receives complaints relating to the status, conditions and affairs of women from individuals and bodies investigate them and report to the State Government.

She added that the Commission is empowered to investigate and enquire into subjects. In her address she also specifically thanked all the Men representatives from different Hohos, Council and NGOs, for turning out positively. She also mentioned that both Men and Women have equal responsibility in the tackling crimes against women and child.

She urged and called upon both men and women to work together for reformation and changes in the society to create crimes and violence free society.

S Advocate Apila Sangtam, Legal Consultant highlighted the functioning of the legal Aid cell of NSCW and delivered an insightful talk on various legal provisions aimed at safeguarding women and children. Her session highlighted important laws and initiatives to enhance protection and security of women and children in the state.

Dr Tiamenla Phom, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (Women and Juvenile), presented a detailed case study and elaborated on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, providing crucial insights into its implementation and relevance.

Kekhrienuo Meyase Member NSCW chaired the program, and Esther, Associate Pastor CED, Indisen village invoke the prayer.

The event concluded with vote of thanks by Akokla Longchar followed by an interactive session, fostering discussions on collaborative efforts for ensuring justice and safety for women and children in Dimapur.