District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs), under the aegis of the Nagaland State Legal Services Authority (NSLSA), organized legal awareness programs to commemorate Children’s Day.
Tuensang DLSA celebrated Children’s Day with the students of Government Primary School, Upper Khel Tuensang Village (C/Khel). Herola, Panel Lawyer of Tuensang DLSA, spoke on the significance of Children’s Day, while Antimangyang, Retainer Lawyer of Tuensang DLSA, addressed issues related to sexual abuse offences and the rights of victims. The program was attended by students and teaching staff.
Longleng DLSA observed Children’s Day at Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBV) in Namching Village. A. Mane Phom, Retainer Lawyer, shared a message emphasizing the importance of the “Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education” and also addressed the basic rights of children. A total of 30 students attended the program.
Zunheboto DLSA celebrated Children’s Day with the children of Mt. Carmel Home at Sukhalu Village. Cheliam Khiamniungan, JMFC/Secretary of Zunheboto DLSA, shared the history and significance of Children’s Day and highlighted children’s basic rights, with an emphasis on education. Tovi Z. Yeptho, Deputy Legal Aid Defence Counsel, educated the children on child abuse and raised awareness about the concept of “good and bad touch.” He further encouraged them to speak up if they face any form of abuse, assuring them that the law is there to protect them. The children participated by reciting Bible verses and presenting a special song.
Mon DLSA commemorated Children’s Day in collaboration with Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS), Mon, with over 600 students from classes 11 and 12 in attendance. B. Peter Resu, Chief Judicial Magistrate/Secretary of Mon DLSA, spoke on the Right to Information Act (RTI), 2005, emphasizing the need for transparency and understanding legal and constitutional rights. He also guided the students through the process of filing RTI applications and the appeal process. Angun Konyak enlightened the audience about the initiatives and activities of the District Legal Services Authority and highlighted the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012. Shonwang Konyak, Additional Public Prosecutor, elaborated on the legal rights of individuals.
Meanwhile, Dimapur DLSA observed a Pre-Children’s Day celebration on November 9 on the theme “Inclusion for Every Child” at AV Hall, Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, Dimapur. The Secretary of the Department of Social Welfare, Martha R. Ritse, IAS, was the special guest. Panel Lawyer Moatila Ao highlighted the role of the Legal Services Authority and spoke on the POCSO Act. The program was jointly organized by DDLSA, District Administration, and various NGOs. Students and children from different schools, homes, and institutions attended the celebration.
Wokha DLSA visited the Special Juvenile Police Unit at Wokha Police Station. Nino Iralu, Chairperson of WDLSA, spoke on various laws relating to children and their implementation, emphasizing the need for a child-friendly attitude and environment for children in conflict with the law and those in need of care and protection. Gunlinlan Tungning, OC Wokha Police Station, welcomed the team. Panel Lawyers Shanchobeni P. Lotha, Jacob Kinon, and PLVs also participated in the program, highlighting the NALSA helpline number 15100, Child Helpline number 1098, and Women Helpline number 181.
Kohima DLSA visited the Destitute Home in Kezieke, Kohima, led by its Secretary, Kohima DLSA and Chief Judicial Magistrate, Wokono Yhoshü. Nulhuvolu Rhakho, Panel Lawyer of KDLSA, gave a brief presentation on Child Rights, including the right to life, education, food, protection, and health—particularly mental health. Video clips about Child Rights were also shown to the members of the Destitute Home.
Secretary Wokono encouraged the children to perform their basic duties with hard work, patience, and perseverance. The home currently shelters 9 minors, aged 9-16, including 7 females and 2 males. The program was attended by Panel Lawyers Vilezonuo and Wonchano, as well as one PLV.
Mokokchung DLSA celebrated Children’s Day at an orphanage in Shihaphumi village. During the event, Panel Lawyer Mapujungla addressed important topics such as bullying, the concept of good touch and bad touch, and children’s rights. Retainer Lawyer Watitemjen, along with PLVs, also participated in the celebration.