North East Network (NEN), in collaboration with Nenterprise and SelfEmployed Women’s Association (SEWA), led the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) 2025 campaign across Nagaland under the theme “Ensure Every Space is Safe for Women.”
The campaign commenced on the evening of 25 November 2025 in local ground, Chizami Village, Phek District, aligning with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. The launch event brought together 114 participants, including Church leaders, Village Council members, Youth Societies, Students’ Union, and Women’s Societies from 4 villages, who renewed their commitment to building safer communities.
The inauguration ceremony in Chizami included prayers, a welcome address, and a context-setting session featuring song performances and candle-lighting ceremonies symbolizing solidarity and hope.The Superintendent of Police, Phek, Dr.Pritpal Kaur delivered powerful insights on justice, safety, and strategic measures to combat GBV. Drawing from personal and professional experiences, she emphasized that gender equality means equal rights and opportunities for all and underscored the diverse forms of violence: physical, emotional, psychological, and economic. Dr. Kaur highlighted the alarming rise in violence against women and children, emphasizing the urgent need for education, economic independence, and robust community and family support for survivors. She urged participants to utilize legal protections like 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 centers for victims. She also cautioned about the growing threats of digital violence, cybercrime, trafficking, and unsafe employment risks faced by youth today.
Referencing personal stories and biblical teachings on leadership and courage, Dr. Kaur called on families, community leaders, and churches to raise boys and girls with respect and zero tolerance for violence. She highlighted supporting women’s education, livelihoods (such as weaving and handicrafts), leadership roles, and decision-making opportunities as key to community advancement.
Campaign Activities Across Nagaland
25 November: Online Cyber Hygiene session by Deputy Superintendent of Police PHQ, Kohima Kihika Sumi Chishi with NEN Farm School Fellows focusing on safe financial transactions, mobile phone safety, social media tips, password security, and awareness of cybercrime related to identity theft, scams, and online harassment.
27 November: GBV session and film screening in Wuzu, Meluri District with the Millet Sisters, followed by discussions emphasizing the community’s desire for a violencefree Christian society.
28 November: Session on Sexual Harassment of Women at workplace(Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) POSH Act 2013, with women from Self Employed Women’s Association (SEWA), in Kohima led by Deputy Inspector General of Police (HR & SJ), K Swarnambika, IPS,alongside film screening on GBV and discussions.
28 November: GBV session and film screening on GBV in PathsoNokeng, Noklak with youths, and youths emphasizing the need to reach out to larger people from the community.
29 November: GBV session and film screening with women from Self Employed Women’s Association in Shamator, on the Domestic Violence Act and the importance of understanding rights and legal protections.
5 December: Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) sessions for NEN staff and community women leaders in Chizami by Social Activist and Educator, Seno Tsuhah, on the needs for gender equality and social inclusion to access opportunities.She emphasised the 4 E framework, Engagement, Empowerment, Enhancement and Emergence a tool used for designing inclusive programmes for the community. The importance of soil for sustainability was also highlighted.
8 December: Cybercrime awareness session in Chumukedima byDeputy Superintendent of Police MhalezhunuoChielie, addressing rising cyber offences in Nagaland, especially financial fraud and social media scams. The session included advice on recognizing phishing, OTP fraud, Ponzi schemes, data scams, social media misuse, and prevention measures such as strong passwords, verified transactions, and reporting related complaints to helplines number 1930 and to the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal.
Throughout the campaign, a total of 307 participants engaged across Nagaland, including 217 women and 91 men. The movement stands firm against the violence occurring locally and globally. North East Network reaffirms its ongoing commitment to justice and safety for all.
NEN urges all community members and leaders to join the 16 Days of Activism to promote zero tolerance for GBV not just for 16 days, but to make the society free from violence year-round, each contributing towards building safer, just homes and communities throughout Nagaland.
(Published as received)
