The Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW) has appealed to all citizens to ensure and secure safety and dignity of women in Nagaland.
NSCW chairperson Khrienuo Tachu has expressed concern that crimes against women, especially domestic violence, sexual harassment and mental violence are on the rise, more so amid the pandemic, within the state.
Tachu said the commission is on its toes, alongside Sakhi One Stop centres, women organisations/hohos and women cells across the districts of Nagaland.
The commission said it is appalled to know that gang rape even had seeped into the Naga society.
Condemning such incidents, the common appealed for positive mindset change towards women and the girl child, saying a just society must ensure the safety and wellbeing of women against all odds, not just airing condemnations after crimes against them are committed.
The commission noted that while steps are being taken with law enforcing bodies to award severest punishments and non-bailable warrants towards the perpetrators, outside court settlements are harming the Naga women more than ever as it compromises with their future safety and security.
It expressed pain that many 2020 returnees had gone back to the metros for earning a pittance in non-livable accommodations, exposing themselves to vulnerable situations.
“As such, a replay of 2020 cases of molestation, poverty and distress calls are on the rise again,” it stated.
The commission called for better networking among student organisations, pastors and other stakeholders for the welfare of the Nagas living outside the state. It added that it is also coordinating and availing assistance from all the stakeholders outside the state during emergencies.