‘Need positive mindset change towards women and girl child’

NSCW appeals for safety of women

Kohima, July 1 (MExN): The Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW) on Thursday took cognizance of the rising crimes against women within Nagaland and appealed for securing safety and dignity of women in the State.

“Crime against women, especially domestic violence, sexual harassment and mental violence against women are on the rise, more so amid the pandemic, within the state,” the Commission observed, adding that it has been on its toes, alongside Sakhi One Stop Centres (OSCs), Women Organisations/Hohos and Women Cells across the districts.
It expressed dismay to learn that even gang-rape had seeped into the society and condemned the same.

While steps are taken with law enforcing bodies to award severest punishments and non-bailable warrants towards the perpetrators, the NSCW also appealed for a positive mindset change towards women and the girl child.

“A just society must ensure the safety and well-being of women against all odds, not just airing condemnations after crime against women are committed,” it asserted. The Commission also stated that outside Court settlements are harming Naga women more than ever as it compromises with the future safety and security of women.

Meanwhile, NSCW also expressed pain to learn that many 2020 returnees had gone back to the metros for earning “in non-liveable accommodations, posing themselves to vulnerable situations” and stated that, a replay of 2020 cases of molestations, poverty and distress calls are on the rise again.

In this regard, it appealed for better networking of student organisations, pastors and other Nagas living outside the State, “as they become the precious hands and legs of families in Nagaland.” NSCW is also coordinating and availing assistance from all stakeholders outside the State during emergencies, it informed.