Nagaland State Commission for Women raises alarm over rising crimes against women and children, urging awareness, vigilance and collective action statewide
DIMAPUR — Citing a disturbing spike in sexual violence and harassment cases across the state, the Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW) has called for collective action from the government, civil society, faith-based organisations and the public to curb gender-based violence and create a safer environment.
In a public appeal issued on Tuesday, the commission described the growing number of cases involving sexual violence, abuse and harassment as a breakdown of the state's moral, social and protective fabric. It warned that such crimes were becoming “alarmingly frequent” and, in some instances, “disturbingly normalised.”
The NSCW asserted that violence against women and children is a societal failure rather than a private issue and called for urgent introspection and decisive action from every section of society.
The commission stressed the need for sustained sensitisation and awareness on gender justice, dignity and human rights, urging individuals, families, communities, institutions and stakeholders to foster a culture of respect, safety and zero tolerance towards all forms of abuse and exploitation. It appealed to civil society organisations, educational institutions, law enforcement agencies, community leaders and, in particular, faith-based organisations to play a more proactive role in addressing the crisis.
Also read: Yimkhiung Women Organisation seeks speedy trial in Reny Wilfred case
Nagaland women commission seeks strict action in Kiphire rape case
The NSCW also underscored the importance of public awareness of laws designed to protect women and children. It highlighted key legislations, including the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH Act); the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012; the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005; and relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) dealing with domestic violence and abuse.
The commission further urged citizens to make use of available support services, including the Women Helpline (181), Child Helpline (1098), Emergency Response Support System (112), the NSCW Legal Aid Cell, Sakhi One Stop Centres, Shakti Sadan and Child Welfare Committees for assistance, protection and rehabilitation.
Issuing what it described as a "clarion call" to the people of Nagaland, the commission urged citizens to reject victim-blaming, stigma and cultural practices that perpetuate injustice. “Silence and indifference only embolden perpetrators. Let us stand united in vigilance, speak out against abuse, intervene responsibly and support survivors with empathy and dignity,” it stated.