Family Planning Association of India (FPAI), Nagaland branch in collaboration with Human Rights Law Network (HRLN), Nagaland unit organised an advocacy meeting for colony ward leaders with Neiteo Koza, state coordinator, HRLN & Pakinrichapbo, law officer, HRLN as resource persons on October 19 at Reproductive Health and Family Planning Clinic (RHFPC) Daklane Kohima.
A press release from FPA India Nagaland branch programme officer, Akangkokla Namo stated that, Vincent Belho, general manager, FPAI in his introductory remark highlighted the role and initiatives of FPAI in the state.
He mentioned that FPAI promotes raising the family through planning and preparation protecting the interest and happiness of the families. He also said that FPAI not only provide counselling programme or service of family planning methods but provide services for the protection of adolescent health and reproductive rights and top acts, which is targeted to promote young talents in the state.
Neiteo Koza during her topic presentation on POCSO & basic legal provisions for women stated mentioned that Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act is not a gender specific Act but give protection to all children of sexual offences who are below the age of 18 years. She pointed out that POCSO Act cast duty upon every person to ensure that children are protected and mandates the commission of sexual offences under this Act against any child be reported mandatorily and failure to do so shall attract punishment which may extend to 6 months or with fine or with both.
Pakinrichapbo, law officer of HRLN spoke on medical termination of pregnancy act and pre-conception and pre-natal diagnostic technique (Prohibition of Sex) Act. He said that these two Acts were not properly implemented and called on the concern citizens for effective implementation. He also mentioned sex selection of foetus is a punishable offence under the law.
Ville Rhetso, counsellor FPA India in her keynote address appreciated the Association of Kohima Municipal Wards Panchayat (AKMWP) for taking keen interest in mobilising representatives from different wards.
Akangkokla Namo, programme officer FPA India highlighted the concept and significance of comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) for young people and urged the community leaders to initiate health and rights related programme in the community.
Neibulie Kewhuo, president of AKMWP also gave a brief message in the programme chaired by Akangkokla Namo. Programme was attended by leaders and representatives from different colony wards.