Nagaland Takes a Stand Against Digital Violence Targeting Women
The fight against gender-based violence gained significant momentum in Nagaland as the Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW), in partnership with the Dimapur district administration and the District Hub for Empowerment of Women, Mission Shakti, officially launched the state-level observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. The event, held in Dimapur on Tuesday, marked the beginning of the global '16 days of activism against gender-based violence' campaign.
Combating the Growing Threat of Online Harassment
In her keynote address, NSCW chairperson W Nginyeih Konyak highlighted the campaign's critical focus for this year. She explained that the international campaign, which runs annually from November 25 to December 10, is squarely aimed at tackling the surge in online harassment and various forms of abuse that occur in digital spaces. Konyak detailed that the 2023 theme, "UNiTE to End Digital Violence against Women and Girls", directly addresses the escalating danger posed by digital abuse.
"This initiative is an integral part of the wider UNiTE campaign to eliminate violence against women," Konyak stated. She further urged all sectors of society, including the government, civil society, and the private sector, to take concrete action. The chairperson called upon partners and the general public to unite, speak out, and engage in community activities that support survivors and spread awareness about the urgent need to end violence against women and girls.
A Collective Responsibility for a Safer Society
Adding a powerful administrative voice to the cause, Dimapur Deputy Commissioner Tinojongshi Chang addressed the gathering. He described violence against women as not merely a breach of human rights but also as a "deep wound in the soul of society". Chang stressed a crucial point: ending this violence is not solely a woman's burden. He implored everyone present to take a personal pledge to contribute to building safe homes, workplaces, and public spaces for all.
The program also featured an insightful session by Supreme Court advocate Vridna Grover, who elaborated on the different manifestations of violence that women face and outlined practical steps that can be implemented to combat them effectively.
Spreading the Message Across the City
As a tangible step to amplify their message, the campaign unveiled a series of awareness posters. These posters, released by the Deputy Commissioner and NSCW members, will be prominently displayed on the backs of autorickshaws throughout Dimapur. This mobile awareness drive is designed to carry the powerful call to unite against all forms of violence targeting women and girls to every corner of the city, ensuring the message reaches a wider audience.
