Correspondent
WOKHA, MAY 25 (NPN): Deputy commissioner of Wokha, Mhathung Tsanglao, has urged women facing violence, abuse or emotional distress to come forward and seek help through the Sakhi One Stop Centre (OSC), assuring that every case is handled with confidentiality, dignity and care.
Issuing a statement to create awareness on the functioning of the centre, Tsanglao stressed the importance of providing a safe and supportive environment for women affected by violence and abuse. He said women should not remain silent due to fear of stigma or family pressure, adding that timely reporting and intervention can help protect victims and provide access to justice and rehabilitation.
The DC appealed to community leaders, apex bodies, civil society organisations and the public to cooperate with the Sakhi OSC in extending support to women in need. He noted that addressing violence against women requires collective responsibility and encouraged people to spread awareness about the services available at the centre. Centre administrator Thungbeni Kikon highlighted that complaints can be reported directly at the centre or through the Women Helpline number 181. She said women from villages, towns and all parts of Wokha district can avail services, including information on government welfare schemes.
Kikon informed that the Sakhi OSC Wokha, located at District Hospital Wokha, works in close coordination with the police and medical authorities to ensure immediate response and safety for victims. The centre is staffed with trained counsellors, legal case workers and other professionals to provide assistance and emotional support. Officials stated that the centre handles cases related to domestic violence, physical assault, emotional and mental abuse, psychosocial abuse, sexual abuse, economic abuse, cybercrime and property disputes. Victims are provided free legal aid, counselling, medical first aid and temporary shelter facilities for up to five days.
Data shared by the centre revealed that since 2019, 159 cases have been registered, including 67 cases of domestic violence and 51 cases involving women in distress. In 2026 alone, 14 cases have already been registered, eight of which were related to domestic violence. The centre has also dealt with cybercrime, sexual assault, child labour and three attempted murder cases.
Legal case worker Nzanmongi assured that counselling is provided to every woman approaching the centre and that privacy and dignity are respected throughout the process. Officials further informed that only six cases are currently active while the rest have been resolved.
The Sakhi One Stop Centre functions under Mission Shakti of the Ministry of Women and Child Development and provides integrated services including emergency response, rescue assistance, legal aid, psycho-social counselling, temporary shelter, medical support and video conferencing facilities for survivors of violence.