Silent rally in Kohima over domestic workers’ rights

KOHIMA — The Centre for Development Initiatives (CDI) in Kohima organised a silent rally, advocating for the rights of domestic workers on Thursday.

The rally began with a gathering at the Old MLA Hostel junction, where participants were seen holding placards with messages like “protect domestic workers,” “fair wages,” and “dignity and justice for all”. They then marched peacefully through the streets, before ending at Razhü Point.

Speaking with Eastern Mirror, CDI officials said that the silent rally was aimed at raising public awareness and advocate for the rights of domestic workers. They sought to make their often invisible labour visible, highlighting their contributions and addressing issues such as unfair treatment, exploitation and lack of legal protections.

The rally was led by CDI field animators Sarah Swu and Aneibu Theunuo, as well as Sr. KS Rincy, former coordinator of the Ferrando Domestic Workers Alliance Kohima.

The event aimed to influence policymakers to enact reforms that safeguard domestic workers’ rights, foster solidarity among workers, and advocate to the public about the importance of respecting and valuing their work.

Through this peaceful rally, the CDI hoped to prompt conversation, mobilise action, and work towards a society that ensures fair treatment and protections for all workers.

Sarah Swu informed that they observe Domestic Workers Week every year from June 10 to the 16th to recognise and celebrate the significant contributions of domestic workers.

This week raises awareness about the challenges they face, such as low wages, long working hours, lack of legal protections, and poor working conditions, and advocates for their rights, she said.

As an ongoing activity of the week, CDI conducted a silent rally in the town areas with the domestic workers, Swu added.