DIMAPUR, JUN 16 (NPN): Tribal women bodies of Kohima have announced that a peaceful public rally would be organised on June 19 to express concern over the alleged delay in proceedings related to the sexual harassment case involving IDAN officer, Reny Wilfred, and to reaffirm their demand for justice and accountability.
In a statement, action committee for tribal women bodies of Kohima convenor Neithono R. Sothu and member secretary Atono Kense said recent developments in the case and perceived attempts to delay the legal process had caused widespread concern among the community. The women bodies said the issue came at a time when incidents of sexual harassment and violence against women and children continued to raise serious concerns, underscoring the need for stronger safeguards for vulnerable groups and a justice delivery system that commands public confidence.
Following an emergency meeting to deliberate on the matter, the bodies unanimously resolved to organise a peaceful rally to demonstrate solidarity with survivors of sexual violence and to advocate for justice.
The rally is scheduled to begin at 10am on June 19, with participants assembling at the Old MLA Hostel Junction before marching to Raj Bhavan, where a memorandum will be submitted to the governor.
The organisers have appealed to tribal bodies, churches, civil society organisations (CSOS), youth groups, women’s bodies and members of the public to participate in large numbers.
Participants have been encouraged to wear traditional attire as a symbol of unity, shared identity and collective resolve.
They have also been advised to carry umbrellas and drinking water for their convenience during the programme.
The organisers stressed that the rally would be peaceful, disciplined and respectful. The said the proposed rally was not directed against any individual or institution but was intended as a collective call for justice, accountability and the protection of women and children.
Appealing for broad public support, the tribal women bodies urged citizens to stand together in support of justice, the safety of women and children, and the wellbeing of society.
ASU backs rally
Angami Students’ Union has appealed to all apex organisations, student bodies and citizens in Kohima district to participate in a peaceful public demonstration on June 19 in support of justice in the ongoing sexual harassment case involving IDAN officer Reny Wilfred.
In a press note, ASU president Diezevisie Nakhro and general secretary Rajuselie Chücha said the appeal was being made under the directive of Angami Women Organisation, urging organisations across tribal affiliations to stand in solidarity for the cause.
The union said acts of sexual harassment were contrary to the values, moral standards and cultural ethos upheld by Naga society and stressed the need for collective action in defence of justice, workplace safety and a secure future.
Calling for maximum participation, the union urged community organisations, student bodies and citizens to rise above tribal boundaries and send a unified message that the safety of the workforce and the dignity of society were non-negotiable.
The union also requested participants to attend the demonstration in their respective traditional attire as a symbol of unity and shared heritage.
Further, ASU appealed to all participants to maintain discipline and conduct themselves in a peaceful and dignified manner throughout the programme, stating that the demonstration was intended to uphold the rule of law and reinforce the collective commitment to justice and accountability.