Experts call to end gender-based inequality

Our Reporter
Dimapur, March 13(EMN): Resource speakers have revealed the stark reality on the prevailing discrimination against women in the form of gender inequality, domestic violence, human trafficking etc. and called to end all such vices in the Naga society.

This was revealed during a programme to commemorate the International Women’s Day, organised by the Nagaland Alliance for Children and Women’s Right (NACWR) in collaboration with Diphupar Naga Women Organisation (DNWO) held at Jubilee Memorial Hall of the Diphupar Ao Church on Saturday.

Speaking at the function, SDO (C) of Chümoukedima, Thejavizo Nakhro stated that Women’s day is observed with a call for gender equality as well as to create an inclusive society. While acknowledging the many positive developments taking place in the society, Nakhro noted that certain disparities especially gender inequality still exist in Naga society.

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In this regard, he has sought for change in the way of thinking and to introspect on issues confronting the Naga society.

Resource person and NACWR legal advisor, Esther K Aye, shared that the society can help the victims of domestic violence by lodging an FIR and also encouraged such victims going to courts and fighting for their legal rights.

As Nagas live in a patriarchal society, she stated that most cases are settled through customary law. She went on to state that even “rape cases are settled through customary law in some villages.” What is more intriguing according to her was that even the women do not support each other as evident from the fact that a mother herself discriminates against the girl child in a family.

In the event of rape, assault or violence against women, she urged the village councils to report to police station. With the increasing rate of divorce cases, she stated that women have the right to claim alimony depending on the gravity of the case.

Besides, she also highlighted some of the schemes for women such as financial assistance to destitute women, promotion of women innovation enterprises, Kishore Shakti Yojana, micro enterprise development scheme, social security for women, women entrepreneurial development initiative etc.

Another NACWR legal advisor Limasenla Longkumer, while speaking on Juvenile Justice Care and Protection of Children Act 2015 and Rules 2016, stated that children are silent victims who cannot speak up for their rights. She explained that the public should not take action on their own and punish a minor for committing crime as only the Juvenile justice Boars could decide on the course of action depending on the case. She further cautioned the parents to be aware of child trafficking.

Also stating that an approximate two-third of assaults are committed by someone known to the victim, she had advocated creating an awareness on the Pocso Act or Children Act in churches.  She further asked the society never to victimise the trafficked women.

Another resource person from Miqlat Ministry, Asha Sanchu, stated that both women and men experience violence. “Unfortunately, we still live in a world where women are discriminated against just because they are women,” she said adding women are paid less even for daily wage.

Rev. Dr. Ellen Konyak Jamir, associate professor of Oriental Theological Seminary, expressed that many people in Nagaland still misunderstood and stigmatised mental health. She said mental health problems could be overcome only if the victim is treated properly on time.

“Let us do away with shame and stigmatisation as mental illness is real, which is like an invisible misery. We all need to advocate for mental health,” she added.

Also speaking on the occasion, principal of NEISSR Rev. Dr. Anto shared about empowering women through education. He has propagated educating the girl child only if the society wants to see changes.