The District Administration, in collaboration with the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) initiative, District Hub for Empowerment of Women (DHEW), SAKHI-One Stop Centre (OSC), and Phomla Hoichem (Phom Apex Women Body), kicked off the annual international campaign “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” in Longleng, DIPR stated. The campaign, observed from 25th November to 10th December 2023, aligns with the theme “UNITE! Invest to Prevent Violence against Women & Girls.”

The campaign commenced with a significant ‘Walkathon,’ starting from Lempong Junction and concluding at Aboi Junction in Longleng. The walk aimed to raise awareness and promote solidarity against gender-based violence.

Yanger Jamir, Superintendent of Police, Longleng, encouraged stakeholders to actively participate in discussions addressing domestic violence. He emphasized that domestic violence is not just a family issue but a societal problem. Women were urged to reach out to the department if they face any form of violence or abusive treatment.

Afen Phom, Specialist in Financial Literature, DHEW, Longleng, provided a brief introduction to the significance of the campaign while Shandimoinyie A Phom, Case Worker, OSC, highlighted the main contributions and implications related to SAKHI-OSC in addressing domestic violence against women.

Advocate P Monyei Phom emphasized that women have the right to live in dignity, free of fear, violence, and discrimination. She discussed legal rights and stressed the seriousness with which domestic violence should be treated.

M Mano Phom, the President of Phomla Hoichem, encouraged the gathering to organize such programs, providing a platform to show support, and strength, and stand against any form of violence against women and the girl child in society.

Women from different Unions, church leaders, PSC executives, Legal Service Authority, Women Police Cell, and ASHA and Anganwadi workers actively participated in the walk.