Nagaland: NEN leads 16 Days of Activism against GBV

North East Network (NEN), in collaboration with Nenterprise and Self Employed Women’s Association (SEWA), led the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) 2025 campaign across Nagaland under the theme “Ensure Every Space is Safe for Women.”
The campaign commenced on November 25 at Chizami village, Phek district, coinciding with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. The launch event brought together 114 participants including church leaders, village council members, youth societies, students’ unions and women’s societies from four villages, who renewed their commitment to building safer communities.
The inauguration featured prayers, welcome address, cultural performances and candle-lighting ceremonies symbolizing solidarity and hope. Superintendent of Police, Phek, Dr. Pritpal Kaur, delivered the keynote, stressing justice, safety and strategic measures to combat GBV. She underscored the rising cases of violence against women and children, highlighting the need for education, economic independence and strong community support. Dr. Kaur urged participants to utilize legal protections under POCSO Act, POSH Act, Juvenile Justice Act and one-stop centres, while cautioning against growing threats of cybercrime, trafficking and unsafe employment.
She further called on families, community leaders and churches to raise boys and girls with respect and zero tolerance for violence, while promoting women’s education, livelihoods, leadership and decision-making roles.
Campaign activities across Nagaland included:
• Nov 25: Online cyber hygiene session by DSP PHQ Kohima, Kihika Sumi Chishi, with NEN Farm School Fellows.
• Nov 27: GBV session and film screening in Wuzu, Meluri district with Millet Sisters.
• Nov 28: POSH Act session with SEWA women in Kohima, led by DIG (HR & SJ) K. Swarnambika.
• Nov 28: GBV session and film screening in Pathso Nokeng, Noklak with youths.
• Nov 29: Domestic Violence Act session with SEWA women in Shamator.
• Dec 5: Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) session in Chizami by activist Seno Tsuhah, introducing the 4E framework—Engagement, Empowerment, Enhancement and Emergence.
• Dec 8: Cybercrime awareness session in Chumukedima by DSP Mhalezhunuo Chielie, addressing financial fraud, phishing, OTP scams and social media misuse.
Altogether, 307 participants engaged in the campaign, including 217 women and 91 men. NEN reaffirmed its commitment to justice and safety, urging communities to uphold zero tolerance for GBV not just for 16 days but year-round, to build safer homes and societies across Nagaland.