The tribal women bodies of Kohima have announced a peaceful public rally on June 19 to express concern over the alleged delay in the ongoing sexual harassment case involving an IDAN officer and to reaffirm their commitment to justice and the protection of women and children.
In a statement issued by the Action Committee for Tribal Women Bodies of Kohima, the organizations said that recent developments and continued attempts to delay the ongoing proceedings in the sexual harassment case involving IDAN officer, Reny Wilfred have “deeply saddened and alarmed” the community.
The Committee stated that at a time when incidents of sexual harassment and violence against women and children have become increasingly alarming, there is an urgent need for stronger protection of vulnerable individuals and a justice system that inspires public confidence.
“In response to these developments, an emergency meeting of tribal women bodies of Kohima was convened to deliberate on the matter and collectively determine the way forward,” the statement said.
Following extensive deliberations, the meeting unanimously resolved to organize a peaceful public rally to express the community’s concern, reaffirm its commitment to justice and stand in solidarity with survivors of sexual violence.
According to the Committee, the rally would be held on June 19 at 10 a.m. Participants would assemble at the Old MLA Hostel Junction, where a brief programme would be conducted before proceeding in a march to Raj Bhavan to submit a memorandum to the Governor.
The tribal women bodies have appealed to all tribal organizations, churches, civil society organizations, youth groups, women’s groups and members of the public to extend their wholehearted support and ensure maximum participation in the rally.
It also urged the public to attend in their respective traditional attire as a symbol of unity, shared identity, and collective resolve.
Participants have further been requested to carry umbrellas and bring their own drinking water bottles for convenience during the programme.
Emphasizing the nature of the event, the committee stated that the rally is intended to be peaceful, disciplined and respectful. “It is not directed against any individual or institution but is a collective call for justice, accountability and the protection of every woman and child,” the statement said.
The organizers also urged participants to conduct themselves with dignity and uphold the values of peace and unity throughout the programme.
The tribal women bodies called upon Nagas from all walks of life 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 the society.
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ASU calls for united participation in the rally
Meanwhile, the Angami Students’ Union (ASU), acting under the directive of the Angami Women’s Organization (AWO), has appealed to all apex organizations, student bodies and sister unions across Kohima district, irrespective of tribal affiliations, to join a collective demonstration demanding justice in the ongoing sexual harassment case involving IDAN officer, Reny Wilfred.
In a statement, the ASU said it firmly believes that acts of sexual harassment are incompatible with the values and principles upheld by Naga society.
“The ASU firmly maintains that such behavior introduces an unwelcome, foreign character into our societal fabric, directly contradicting the foundational values, high moral standards and cultural ethos we cherish,” the statement said.
Expressing support for the initiative of the Tribal Women Bodies of Kohima, the Union noted that the peaceful collective demonstration is being organized in defence of justice, workplace safety and a secure future for all.
According to the ASU, the demonstration is intended to serve as a collective expression of concern over the case and a reaffirmation of society’s commitment to ensuring the safety, dignity and rights of women.
The Union strongly urged all community organizations, student unions, civil society groups and right-thinking citizens of the district to ensure maximum participation in the programme.
Calling for unity beyond tribal affiliations, the ASU emphasized that the issue concerns the welfare and security of society as a whole and requires a united response.
The ASU further appealed to participants to attend the rally in their respective traditional attire as a mark of respect for the cause and as a symbol of the rich cultural heritage and collective identity of the Naga people.
The Union also called upon all attendees to uphold the highest standards of civic discipline and conduct throughout the programme.
