Kohima, June 16 (MExN): Tribal Women Bodies of Kohima have announced a public rally on June 19 to protest against the alleged attempts to delay the ongoing proceedings in the sexual harassment case involving IDAN officer Reny Wilfred, expressing deep anguish over the developments.
The decision was taken at an emergency meeting of the tribal women bodies, which resolved to organise the peaceful public rally to express the community’s concern, reaffirm commitment to justice and stand in solidarity with survivors of sexual violence.
The rally will commence at 10:00 am on June 19, with participants assembling at the Old MLA Hostel Junction. After a brief programme, the protesters will march to Raj Bhavan to submit a memorandum to the Governor.
In a joint statement, Convenor Neithono R Sothu and Member Secretary Atono Kense of the Action Committee for Tribal Women Bodies of Kohima said the recent developments in the case have “deeply saddened and alarmed” the community.
“At recent times when incidents of sexual harassment and violence against women and children have become increasingly alarming, there is an urgent need for stronger protection of the vulnerable and a justice system that inspires public confidence,” the statement said.
The organisers have appealed to all tribal bodies, churches, civil society organisations, youth and women's groups and the general public to extend wholehearted support by mobilising maximum participation.
Members of the public have been encouraged to attend in their respective traditional attire as a symbol of unity, shared identity and collective resolve. Participants have also been requested to carry an umbrella and bring their own drinking water.
The rally is intended to be “peaceful, disciplined and respectful” and is not directed against any individual or institution, the organisers clarified, adding it as a “collective call for justice, accountability, and the protection of every woman and child.”
“We urge everyone to conduct themselves with dignity and uphold the values of peace and unity throughout the programme,” the statement added.
The tribal women bodies appealed to the Nagas to participate in the proposed rally and stand as one community, united in their commitment to justice, the safety of women and children, and the future of society.
Meanwhile, the Angami Students’ Union (ASU), acting on the directive of the Angami Women’s Organization (AWO), has called for maximum participation in the public rally, from student unions and community bodies, urging them to rise above tribal affiliations.
All participants have been requested to attend in their respective traditional attire to showcase their collective heritage. The ASU also appealed for strict civic discipline, asking all demonstrators to maintain a peaceful and resolute spirit during the protest. “The safety of our workforce and the dignity of our society are paramount. We must stand together in an orderly and dignified manner to defend the rule of law,” the union added.
.jpg)
