North East Network (NEN), in collaboration with Nenterprise and the Self Employed Women’s Association (SEWA), led the 2025 edition of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) campaign across Nagaland under the theme “Ensure Every Space is Safe for Women.”
KOHIMA, DECEMBER 9 (MExN): North East Network (NEN), in collaboration with Nenterprise and the Self Employed Women’s Association (SEWA), led the 2025 edition of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) campaign across Nagaland under the theme “Ensure Every Space is Safe for Women.” The campaign was launched on November 25 at the local ground in Chizami, Phek district, coinciding with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. A total of 114 participants, including church leaders, village council members, youth groups, students’ unions and women’s societies from four villages, attended the inaugural event.
The launch programme featured prayers, a welcome address and a context-setting session, along with song presentations and a candle-lighting ceremony symbolising solidarity. Superintendent of Police, Phek, Dr Pritpal Kaur spoke on justice, safety and strategies to address GBV. She underscored the rising incidence of violence against women and children and stressed the importance of education, economic independence and strong family and community support systems.
Dr Kaur highlighted various legal safeguards available to survivors, including the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the Protection of Women from Sexual Harassment at Workplace (POSH) Act, the Juvenile Justice Act and one-stop support centres. She also cautioned against emerging threats such as cybercrime, digital abuse, trafficking and unsafe employment opportunities.
Calling on families, faith leaders and community members to raise boys and girls with respect and zero tolerance for violence, she stressed the need to support women’s education, livelihood activities such as weaving and handicrafts, and leadership roles within communities.
Campaign activities across Nagaland
November 25: An online cyber hygiene session was conducted by Deputy Superintendent of Police, PHQ Kohima, Kihika Sumi Chishi, for NEN Farm School Fellows, focusing on safe financial transactions, mobile security, social media awareness and cybercrime prevention.
November 27: A GBV awareness session and film screening were held in Wuzu, Meluri district, with the Millet Sisters, followed by community discussions advocating for a violence-free society.
November 28: A session on the POSH Act, 2013, was led in Kohima by DIG (HR & SJ), K. Swarnambika, IPS, for SEWA members, along with a film screening and discussion. A parallel GBV session and film screening were also organised in Pathso Nokeng, Noklak, with youth participants.
November 29: A GBV awareness session and film screening were conducted in Shamator for SEWA members, focusing on the Domestic Violence Act and legal protections for women.
December 5: A Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) session was held in Chizami by social activist and educator Seno Tsuhah for NEN staff and community women leaders, highlighting the 4E framework—Engagement, Empowerment, Enhancement and Emergence—as a tool for designing inclusive community programmes.
December 8: A cybercrime awareness session was conducted in Chümoukedima by Deputy Superintendent of Police Mhalezhunuo Chielie, addressing rising cyber offences such as financial fraud, OTP scams, data theft and social media misuse. The resource person advised participants to report cybercrime via helpline 1930 and the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal.
In total, 307 participants—217 women and 91 men—took part in the various activities organised across the state. NEN said the movement stands firm against violence occurring locally and globally and reaffirmed its commitment to justice and safety for all.
NEN urged community members and leaders to extend the spirit of the campaign throughout the year and work collectively to build safe and just homes and communities across Nagaland.
