The Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW), appealed to all citizens to ensure and secure safety and dignity of women in Nagaland in a press release. Chairperson, NSCW, KhrienuoTachu, stated that 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 said that it has been on its toes, alongside Sakhi One Stop Centres (OSCs), Women Organisations/Hohos and Women Cells across the districts of Nagaland.

It said that it is appalled to know that gang-rape even had seeped into our society, which the commission condemns out-right. While steps are taken with law enforcing bodies to award severest punishments and non-bailable warrants towards the perpetrators, it also appealed for positive mindset change towards women and the girl child, adding that 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. Outside Court Settlements are harming Naga women more than ever as it compromises with the future safety and security of women, it said.

NSCW stated that it is pained that many 2020 Returnees had gone back to the metros for earning pittance in non-liveable accommodations, posing themselves to vulnerable situations often times and as such, a replay of 2020 cases of molestations, poverty and distress calls are on the rise again. It also appealed for better networking of student organisations, pastors and other stakeholders of Nagas living outside the state, as they become the precious hands and legs of families in Nagaland. It informed that the NSCW is also coordinating and availing assistance from all stakeholders outside the state during emergencies.

                                                                                                                        (DIPR)