Dimapur, December 8 (MExN): Making a renewed call to eliminate all forms of violence against women, Naga Women Hoho (NWH) Dimapur, today organised a rally at the clock tower junction in Dimapur to launch the ‘fortnight observation on elimination of violence against women.’ Speakers of the programme, Deputy Commissioner Maongwati Aier and Naga Council President, Savi Leigise both called on the citizens of Dimapur to respect women and safeguard their rights.
Aier, in his message said, “men and women are equal partners…we must treat them as copartners.” He said that only a foolish man can mishandle a woman, and that it takes a brave man to respect a woman. Reminding people about the rights of women enshrined in the Indian Constitution, Aier said there should be no discrimination on the basis of gender, and that women must be given equal opportunities in all walks of life. He appealed to all citizens of Dimapur to respect and safeguard rights of women; adding that a city can move forward only if it eliminates violence against women.
Leigise also reminded the men that they God created them to be protectors of women. “It is out responsibility to protect our women,” he said. He said that those people who don’t know the value of women on this earth are the ones who violate and insult them. He further called for widespread awareness on the issue of women’s rights, saying: “we need to spread awareness…the world cannot be a happy, clean and joyous place without women.” He also suggested that in setting up a grievance cell in all colonies to tackle issues pertaining women.
Further, a message from the Chairperson of Nagaland Women Commission, Sano Vamuzo, stated that men should be the agent of change on gender issue. She said it is high time that Naga men speak out on the issue and also translate their words into actions. “We encourage every supporter; both men and women, to work together towards the urgent call to banish and eliminate violence against women…create a safe and fear-free environment for your women staring this day.”
On the launch of the fortnight campaign, she said it has been launched in consonance with the goals and philosophy of the ‘White Ribbon Campaign’ which started in Canada in 1991. The WRC is the largest effort of men in the world working to end violence against women. This campaign has reached over 57 countries, and wearing a white ribbon is a personal pledge to never commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women and girls.
Meanwhile, with the rest of the state Zunheboto town observed the International Fortnight observation of violence against women at main traffic point near Old NST on December 8 with the President Sumi Hoho Hokishe Yepthomi as chief guest. In his speech he said that violence against women is increasing day by day and there are many cases in our state but constitutionally women are equal with any other human being in our land.
During the proceedings of the programme all vehicular traffic movement and business establishment remained closed. White ribbon has been distributed to the entire member present in the programme which means no more violence against women in future.
Vote of thanks was proposed by Vishili Francis while benediction was pronounced by Kaholi Shikhu Assistant Pastor Woman. The programme was successfully attended by Deputy Commissioner, Zunheboto T. Kiheto, government officials and more than 300 people.
