The Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW), in collaboration with the District Administration Dimapur, District Hub for Empowerment of Women (DHEW) Mission Shakti, and Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, launched the global campaign “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” at Town Hall, Dimapur, on 25, November, 2025. The programme also marked the observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
Held under the theme "Unite of End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls", the event aimed to raise awareness on the growing threat of online harassment and digital abuse faced by women and girls, while reinforcing collective responsibility in creating safer digital spaces.
Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur, Dr. Tinojongshi Chang, NCS, formally launched the UNiTE Campaign and delivered his speech. He underscored the significance of the day, noting that November 25 is “not just a date in the calendar, but a reminder of a global crisis”. He emphasized that violence against women remains one of the most widespread human rights violations, occurring in homes, workplaces, public spaces and increasingly in digital platforms.
Highlighting the emotional and societal impact of such violence, the DC noted that fear continues to shape the daily lives of many women. “Every woman deserves to live with dignity, freedom and respect,” adding that the day serves as a moment to remember survivors, honour those who lost their lives, and amplify the voices of those who still suffer in silence. He further drew attention to global statistics indicating that one in three women experiences physical or sexual violence in her lifetime. “Behind every number is a mother, sister, daughter or friend - someone with dreams, hope and a right to safety,” he remarked.
Stressing that ending violence against women is a collective responsibility, the DC called upon men, women, youth, institutions and governments to challenge harmful attitudes, promote respect and create safe environments. He emphasised on the importance of education, community dialogues, counselling and empowerment initiatives were highlighted as essential tools to break cycles of violence.
Participants were urged to support survivors, report violence, and speak out against discriminatory behaviour. “When a survivor gathers the courage to speak, the least we can do is believe her and stand beside her". He concluded with a renewed plea for commitment and solidarity. “A society can only progress when its women are safe, valued and empowered. Violence against women is not a women’s issue alone it is a human, moral and societal issue, and he encouraged all individuals to be part of the solution.
A theme address was delivered by Advocate Vrinda Grover, Supreme Court lawyer, who spoke on the legal frameworks available to combat technology-facilitated violence and the importance of empowering women with digital literacy. She noted that women and girls are increasingly exposed to cyberbullying, online harassment, stalking, image misuse, and various other forms of digital abuse. She emphasized that such violence not only affects mental health and safety but also restricts participation in digital spaces.
She stressed the need for stronger reporting systems, digital literacy, and awareness on safe online practices. She also underscored the importance of coordinated efforts between government agencies, educational institutions, and civil society to ensure that victims receive timely support. The observance reaffirmed the commitment to creating a safer, more inclusive digital environment, where women and girls can thrive without fear of violence or discrimination. She also informed on the Justice Verma Committee Report, 2013; criminal Law (Amendment Act, 2013); Technology Facilitated Violence Against Women and Girls (TF VAWG), Non- Consensual Intimate Imagery (NCII) and National Cybercrime Reporting Portal.
The programme began with an invocation by Ikali Wokhami, followed by the inaugural address delivered by W. Nginyeih Konyak, Chairperson of NSCW, where she highlighted that the 16 days of Activism against Gender- based violence is an annual international civil society led campaign which commences from 25th November and ends on 10 December. The International Day for the Elimination of Violence against women, highlights that violence against women is the most pervasive breach of human rights worldwide.
She pointed out that UN Secretary-General, António Guterres’ UNiTE by 2030 initiative continues to lead global efforts to eliminate violence against women and girls. Launched in 2008, UNiTE encourages coordinated action across the UN system and calls on governments, development partners, media organizations, and communities worldwide to intensify measures that prevent and respond to gender-based violence. The campaign uses the colour orange as a symbol of hope and a future free from violence.
According to UN estimates, one in three women globally experiences some form of violence in her lifetime a statistic that the UN calls a “global human rights emergency”. The 2025 theme responds to the growing evidence that technology is increasingly being weaponised against women and girls. The theme UNiTE to end digital violence against all women and girls focuses on combating online harassment and other forms of violence that occur in digital spaces.
The 16-day global campaign will run from November 25 to December 10, aimed at promoting advocacy, awareness, and action to eliminate all forms of gender-based violence. The programme, attended by dignitaries, heads of departments, community leaders, students and media representatives.
(Tovikali, IA, Dimapur)
