Staff Reporter
DIMAPUR, JUN 13 (NPN): Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW) member Akokla Longchar on Saturday stressed the need for stronger safeguards and recognition of domestic workers, particularly in the unorganised sector.
She was speaking as chief guest at International Domestic Workers’ Day organised by Assisi Centre for Integrated Development (ACID) cum National Domestic Workers Movement (NDWM) at Assisi Auditorium, Dimapur,
Addressing the programme held under the theme “Together we move forward for Dignity, Recognition and Rights of Domestic Workers,” Akokla noted that under the POSH Act, private homes are recognised as workplaces, and stressed the importance of awareness and implementation of protections against harassment. She underscored that domestic work should never be considered “small,” as it enables others to pursue their professions, and called for fair wages and equal respect.
She further emphasised that domestic workers form an essential part of the economic chain, urging them to raise their voices against wage discrimination and harassment. On gender roles, she remarked that as both men and women contribute financially, responsibilities at home must also be shared equally to prevent stress and conflict.
Highlighting financial independence, Akokla encouraged skill development and self empowerment, urging workers to improve their skills to enhance earning capacity and recognition. She reaffirmed that all earnings, regardless of amount, represent dignity of labour, and encouraged women to approach the Commission in case of grievances. She also stressed the importance of collective voices, stating that unified efforts are more effective in bringing about policy level changes.
Guest of honour, Love Care Home CCI Dimapur founder N.K. Keny, also called for stronger rights and protections for domestic workers in Nagaland. She noted that International Domestic Workers’ Day is observed annually following its adoption by the International Labour Organization (ILO) to address poor treatment and lack of recognition worldwide. Referring to the 2026 international theme “Centering decent work for domestic workers in the care economy,” Keny stressed the need for decent working conditions, economic value and respect.
She pointed out that domestic workers in Nagaland are still not legally recognised, highlighting the importance of legal protection and enforcement. Drawing attention to ground realities, she spoke of exploitation faced by workers, including salary cuts by placement agencies, non payment of wages, physical abuse, excessive working hours and child labour. She also raised concern over workplace harassment, including sexual harassment, and urged workers not to remain silent in the face of injustice.
Keny called for mandatory registration of both domestic workers and employers to ensure proper monitoring and protection, stressing the need for safety, social justice and human dignity.
Other highlights of the programme included lighting of the lamp, prayer song by Maya Sahu, dance performances by Maya Sahu, Rongali and group, Tushi and Co, Muni, Sujana and Co, and Tina and Basanti. Short speeches were delivered by Advocate Priya Shyam and Maya Sahu. The event was chaired by Elizabeth and concluded with a vote of thanks by ANDWU president Asela.