Imphal: The Manipur State Commission for Women (MSCW) successfully conducted a one day awareness program on “Crime Against Women: Redressal Mechanism” today at Mayanglangjing Taning Community Hall, Imphal West.
Addressing the gathering, Thumlip Tiningpham Monsang, Chairperson, Manipur State Commission for Women (MSCW), stated that the programme was organised to create awareness among women so that they realise the importance of standing up for themselves and living with dignity. Emphasising that women’s rights are fundamental rights, she noted that every woman has the right to live with dignity and security.
She stated that numerous laws have been enacted to empower and protect women; however, many women remain unaware of these legal provisions. She further informed that the Commission, established in 2006, has handled several cases where women lacked awareness of their rights. In this regard, she said, the Commission regularly conducts legal awareness programmes, and the present programme on “Crime Against Women” is part of that initiative.
Thumlip Tiningpham Monsang urged all attendees to listen attentively to the technical session and make full use of the programme, so as to enhance their understanding of women’s rights and legal remedies available to them.
Speaking at the programme, W. Phajatombi Devi, Member Secretary, MSCW and Additional Director (IPR), Government of Manipur, expressed her gratitude to the leaders of the four Village Level Federations (VLFs) of Mayanglangjing, namely Leibaklei VLF, Sangai VLF, Mangal VLF and Pandam VLF, for taking the initiative to approach the Commission and sponsor the programme. Emphasising the importance of awareness, she noted that such initiatives play a crucial role in educating communities about crimes against women and the available mechanisms for redressal.
Speaking on the role of the MSCW, W. Phajatombi Devi stated that the Commission functions as part of the National Commission for Women, which serves as the apex body for women’s issues in India. She noted that under the National Commission for Women, each state has instituted its own State Commission for Women. She further informed that despite Manipur being a relatively small state, the MSCW remains a highly active organisation. She added that the Commission has diligently followed the guidelines and directives issued by the National Commission for Women, and has earned recognition from the apex body for its proactive functioning.
W. Phajatombi Devi further stated that any well-organised and impactful activities conducted by Self Help Groups (SHGs) would be duly recognised by the MSCW. She added that SHGs would also be invited to participate in the Commission’s special programmes, including its Foundation Day celebrations and the observance of International Women’s Day.
Speaking on the theme of the programme, “Crime Against Women: Redressal Mechanism,” W. Phajatombi Devi stated that the Women’s Commission exists to address and combat crimes against women. She emphasised that women must be aware of their rights, which can be effectively achieved through awareness programmes. She further stressed that such crimes should be addressed through appropriate legal action to ensure justice and protection for women.
Nongmaithem Prabeena Devi, District Mission Manager, Haorangsabal CD Block, Imphal West, observed that women who face domestic violence for the first time often tend to ignore it, assuming it will not recur. She cited various instances of domestic violence and noted that such acts have, over time, become normalised in society. She emphasised that such behaviour must be addressed at the very first instance, and that silence should not be encouraged. She further pointed out that such incidents commonly affect married women, who are often advised by elders in the household to remain silent.
She stated that many women are unaware of their rights and urged women to be courageous, to speak out against injustice, to seek legal recourse and enabling them to live with dignity.
The programme also featured a technical session on “Crime Against Women: Redressal Mechanism” presented by Thiyam Rajkishore, Advocate. Sk. Sophia, Member, Manipur State Commission for Women, along with members of SHGs and Village Level Federations (VLFs), attended the programme.
