Legal aid sought primarily for domestic abuse in Nagaland, says NSCW

KOHIMA — Domestic violence cases are the most common reason women in Nagaland seek help from the legal aid cell of the Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW).

Since its establishment in 2022, the cell has received approximately 15 cases, with the majority involving domestic violence and related offenses, including rape.

This concerning trend was highlighted by NSCW Legal Consultant, Apila Sangtam, during an awareness programme held in Kohima on Thursday.

Highlighting the prevalence of domestic violence in the state, Sangtam noted that while some cases have been resolved, others are ongoing. She also pointed out a recurring pattern where victims initially hesitate to file formal complaints and often return after facing repeated abuse.

She said that ‘emotional and verbal abuse’, frequently overlooked, also constitute domestic violence under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005. At least 70% of cases received by the NSCW fall under this category, she added.

Elaborating on the Act, she said that domestic violence can also be identified as physical violence, inclusive of acts like beating, slapping, hitting, biting, kicking, punching, pushing, and causing bodily injury or pain or any other manner. The other aspects include economic violence and sexual violence.

Offences against women are increasing day by day and it is now happening in our own kitchens, and in the past, people have been ignorant about laws, but now there is no excuse, she said.

She observed that Nagas are generally closely-knitted that any time, if it has to talk about forgiveness, they become one and if it is to take revenge, then they become divided. She also noted that societal pressures often discourage victims from seeking justice.

The legal aid cell offers accessible and free services, including drafting affidavits, filing petitions, and providing legal representation throughout the legal process, including appeals to higher courts, she said, urging women to utilise these resources.

Sangtam informed that citizens can file cases against the perpetrators of domestic violence in the court of judicial magistrate of the first class (JMFC), or district welfare officer who is designated as protection officer, or legal aid cell of NSWC.

Highlighting the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, she said that internal complaints committee (ICC) have to be set up in every establishment to handle complaints of sexual harassment in workplace.   Also speaking on Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, she informed that out of 23 cases of crime against children in Nagaland, offenders are acquainted with the child in most cases.

NSCW Chairperson W Nyinyeih Konyak emphasised the commission’s commitment to providing accessible justice for all women, regardless of background and encouraged victims of domestic violence to seek help from the NSCW, assuring them of support as well as free legal assistance to those who cannot afford it.

One cannot stop crime but sensitisation among family members on domestic violence and services available will go a long way, she said, urging women not to fear and seek aid.

Chairing the programme, Akokla Longchar, member of NSCW, called for a change of mindset in the society stating that crime against women and children will continue without this change. She also called for active participation of men in awareness initiatives concerning domestic violence.

Kekhrienuo Meyase, member of NSCW, delivered the vote of thanks during the programme which saw the participation of women, mothers associations and colony representatives.