Morung Express News
Kohima | August 2
Against the backdrop of the alleged attempted rape and assault of a mother on July 16 at Botsa village, the Northern Angami Women Organisation (NAWO) organised a peaceful rally this morning at Razhü point, Kohima.
Hundreds of women alongside men and youth participated in the rally holding placards that read ‘we condemn this immoral act;’ ‘we demand justice for the victim’ etc.
In a brief programme that was held, Northern Angami Public Organisation (NAPO) President, Keduo Zumu and Northern Angami Youth Organisation (NAYO) President Khriesazo Liezietsu, while condemning the act stated that in case the government and judiciary fails to deliver justice, they are ready to deal with the case as per customary law.
They expressed concern that women today are living in a very insecure environment where they are not safe even in their own hometown, and are living in fear of their dignity and safety.
“Are we the youth and men doing our part to protect our mothers and sisters and make them feel safe?” asked Liezietsu and asserted that the Northern Angami youth is ready to deal with this particular case, should the government fail to deliver justice and award befitting punishment to the accused as per the law.
Expressing concern on the rise of abuse and assault on women in the state, Angami Women Organisation (AWO) President, Neithono R. Sothu said, “We cannot begin to comprehend not only the physical pain, but the mental trauma and scar that any victim of sexual assault has to endure throughout her life.”
While appreciating the NAWO for leading the way to voice out against these kinds of atrocities against women, she said that men should also start teaching their sons to respect women.
Academic and leader Rosemary Dzüvichü meanwhile said these behaviours are not part of Naga culture as Naga culture. “We have come to a generation where women are not respected, mothers are not respected, and this all comes not only from our men, but from our homes,” she stated.
She advocated that it is time for mothers to teach their sons to love and respect women of all ages, including children. Stating that Naga society has seen high cases of child rape and molestation, Dzüvichü urged the government, the law enforcing agencies and the Governor to take heed of the crimes against women and children.
“Respect and justice must be given to women who have been violated; for women who have been killed,” stated Dzüvichü. She demanded that no bail be granted to the accused who has brought shame to his family, clan, village and the Naga people as a whole.
Following the programme, participants marched to the Deputy Commissioner’s Office to submit a memorandum.
Highlighting the chronology of the incident, the NAWO said that the victim suffered multiple stab wounds on her arm, neck, and behind her earlobe while defending herself.
In its memorandum, the NAWO condemned the act, calling it a “cowardly and inhuman crime that strikes at the core of women’s dignity and safety.”
NAWO also pointed out that crimes against women eventually end up with acquittal of the accused person(s), which puts into question the justice system. It demanded a full investigation without any lapses in the criminal justice process; bail denial to the accused, all legal measures to keep him in custody; protection and support to the victim and her family; and strict punishment to the accused under relevant sections of law to set a strong precedent.
It has also asked the police to discharge their duties with efficiency and integrity, adding that “justice must not only be done but must manifestly be seen to be done.”
