Kohima: Nagaland on Tuesday marked the start of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence with the launch of the state’s first Gender Resource Centre, a move officials described as a significant step toward creating safer spaces for women and girls.
The centre was inaugurated by Social Welfare Advisor and MLA Wangpang Konyak, who said the initiative symbolises a shared resolve to eliminate violence that continues to impact millions of women around the world.
Addressing a programme held on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, he noted that one in three women globally still experience abuse in some form.
Konyak raised concern over recent reports of rising crimes against women in Kohima, pointing out that Mission Shakti units, One Stop Centres and the 181 Women Helpline continue to receive numerous distress calls — many from survivors who remain anonymous due to social stigma.
He appealed for a broader societal response, stressing that gender-based violence “is not a women’s issue alone but a human issue” that erodes the dignity of communities.
Calling for stronger male participation through efforts such as the HeForShe campaign, he said, “Real men do not raise their hands against women — they raise their voices with women.”
Konyak also recognised the work of Mission Shakti personnel and the support of the Ministry of Women & Child Development.
Congratulating the Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission (NSRLM) for expanding Gender Resource Centres to seven additional RD blocks — Kiphire, Longleng, Mon, Changtongya, Pfutsero, Wokha and Satakha — he said the new facility will not only act as a safe space for survivors but also help train local institutions, including police, churches and youth groups, to respond more effectively to cases.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to support women facing violence, envisioning a future where every woman in Nagaland can “study, work and walk without fear.”
Social Welfare Secretary Limawabang Jamir also addressed the gathering, underscoring the crucial role of men in preventing violence and ensuring accountability.
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He said One Stop Centres across all 17 districts have provided assistance in 1,703 cases so far, including shelter, legal services, medical support and counselling.
Meanwhile, the 181 Women Helpline and 1098 Child Helpline have together handled 3,396 calls since 2016.
Jamir urged greater awareness on legal rights and reporting mechanisms, including the SheBox online portal for workplace sexual harassment complaints.
Public cooperation, he said, is essential for making homes, institutions and cyberspace safer for women and children.
Calling for collective action at every level, he said the goal remains clear — a Nagaland where women and girls live free from fear and violence.
