DIMAPUR, JUN 30 (NPN): The Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW) expresses deep concern and grave alarm at the increasing incidence of crimes, sexual violence, and harassment against women and children across the State. These disturbing trends are not merely statistics—they represent a breakdown in the moral, social, and protective fabric of our society.
In recent times, cases of gender-based violence have become alarmingly frequent and, in many instances, disturbingly normalized. This demands urgent introspection and decisive action from every section of society. Violence against women and children is not a private matter; it is a societal failure that calls for collective responsibility.
The Commission emphasizes the critical need for widespread sensitization and awareness on issues of gender justice, dignity, and human rights. It is imperative that individuals, families, communities, institutions, and stakeholders come together to foster a culture of respect, safety, and zero tolerance toward any form of abuse or exploitation.
We call upon all stakeholders—including civil society organizations, educational institutions, law enforcement agencies, community leaders, and importantly, Faith-Based Organizations—to play an active and responsible role in addressing this crisis. Given their moral influence and outreach, faith based Institutions must lead in shaping values that uphold dignity, compassion, and protection for the vulnerable.
Equally vital is the need for citizens to be informed and educated about the legal provisions that exist to safeguard women and children. Awareness of the law is a powerful tool for prevention, protection, and justice.
Key legislations include:
The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act 2013, also commonly known as POSH Act, which ensures safe working environments for women.
The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012 ( POCSO Act), which provides robust mechanisms to protect children from sexual abuse, sexual assault, sexual harassment and exploitation.
The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, which provides immediate civil remedies and protective orders to shield women from physical, emotional, sexual, verbal and financial abuse within a shared household.
Provisions relating to domestic violence and abuse under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which addresses cruelty, assault, and other forms of violence within private and public spaces.
The Commission further urges the public to be aware of and utilise the toll-free Helplines and support systems available for immediate assistance and rehabilitation:
Child Welfare Committees (CWC): A statutory body constituted in every district to ensure care, protection, treatment and rehabilitation of children in need of care and protection.
These services exist to ensure that no victim stands alone, and timely intervention can make a critical difference in protection and recovery.
The NSCW issues a clarion call to the conscience of every right-thinking citizen of Nagaland:
“Rise against the perpetuation of gender-based violence. Silence and indifference only embolden perpetrators. We must reject all forms of victim-blaming, stigma, and cultural justifications that perpetuate injustice. Let us stand united in vigilance. Let us speak out, intervene responsibly, and support survivors with empathy and dignity. Let us build a Nagaland where women and children can live free from fear, where justice prevails, and where humanity is upheld above all”.
The time to act is now.
Women Helpline – 181: provides immediate assistance to women facing violence, abuse, harassment, or any form of distress, whether in public or private spaces.
Child Helpline – 1098 for children in need of care, protection, or facing abuse.
The Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) – 112: an Emergency helpline for people facing immediate danger or requiring urgent emergency assistance by police, ambulance, or fire services and also provides emergency assistance to women, children, senior citizens, and other vulnerable persons in distress.
NSCW Legal Aid Cell – # 8730999448: A single-window clinic that provides free legal assistance, legal advice and counseling to women in distress.
Sakhi – One Stop Centres (OSCs): provides integrated support including medical care, counselling, legal aid, temporary shelter, and other support services to women affected by violence.
Shakti Sadan: an Integrated Relief and Rehabilitation Home which provides long-term care and rehabilitation for women in difficult circumstances, including survivors of trafficking.