Campaign eyes to curb violence against women and children
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, November 28 2023: Manipur State Commission of Women (MSCW) has launched a 16-day activism against gender-based violence, a global campaign spearheaded by civil societies, on November 25 .

The campaign launched on the occasion of International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, will run till the observance of International Human Rights Day on December 10 .

According MSCW chairperson Salam Ulka, the 2023 campaign theme, "Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women & Girls, " emphasises on the crucial need for financing prevention strategies to curb violence before it occurs.

Speaking during the launch function, Ulka highlighted the challenges faced in ensuring effective implementation of the legislation to address domestic violence against women, citing weak enforcement and persisting discriminatory social norms as significant obstacles.

The Commission has been tirelessly working to end atrocities against women, particularly amid the on-going conflict in the state, Ulka said, while pointing out that violence against women has escalated in various settings, including homes, workplaces, and online spaces.

The rise of cyber-crime has led to instances of sexual abuse and violence against women in the state, with the recent viral videos exacerbating the issue, she added.

The COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing conflict in the state since May 2023 have intensified violence against women and girls, aggravating existing challenges and creating new threats.

Economic insecurity, disrupted livelihoods, and limited social protection have increased the vulnerability of women and girls to violence, she expressed con cern.

Ulka emphasised the transformative impact of investing in preventing violence against women and girls, citing the negative effects on their physical and mental health, professional development, and economic empowerment.

The clashes between Meeteis and Kukis have broader social and economic consequences, particularly affecting women and children, she said.

In a call to action, Ulka urged private and public sectors to invest, in workplace policies ensuring women's economic security and safety.

She also called for tangible policy, programmatic, and financial commitments to accelerate transformative action and end all forms of gender-based violence.

As the state embarks on these 16 days of activism, the Commission called for a collective commitment to a transformative and lasting change resonates, while urging individuals and sectors to work collaboratively in addressing the multifaceted aspects of violence against women and girls.

The Commission also encouraged everyone to join the movement, advocating for a future free from gender-based violence.

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