Imphal, November 25 2009: The rate of violence and crime against women has been increasing in Manipur, said former Chairperson of Manipur Human Rights Commission (MHRC) WA Shishak.

Speaking as chief guest at the inaugural function of the International Fortnight Observation Protesting Violence Against Women at MDU Hall today, WA Shishak observed that morality and love for fellow beings are declining day by day.

People have become so obsessed with money and material/physical well being.

That was why, rate of violence and crimes against women was rising, Shishak said.

When a woman did not get due human rights and justice, it was a serious violence against the woman, he said.

The historic Nupi Lans and the contemporary Meira Paibi movement define the women of Manipur.

Women's movements in Manipur are very forceful but on the other side, many women have been suffering helplessly.

Observing that there have been continuous cases of rape and murder including even minors, Shishak decried that two women were raped and murdered on the auspicious day of Ningol Chakkouba this year.

When compassion for fellow beings is lost, there would be no use for any volumes of law.

What is crucial is compassion and love between fellow beings, Shishak said.

The function organised jointly by Women Action for Development (WAD), NGOs and other organisations was also attended by Judicial Magistrate A Nautuneshwari, ISTV Editor Yumnam Rupachandra and chairperson of the United NGO's Mission, Imphal Dr Tamthing Ruivanao as guests of honour.

Secretary of the Centre for Social Development, Imphal U Nobokishore presided the function.

Giving key-note address of the observance, WAD secretary Sobita Mangshatabam said that violence committed against women not only ruined the lives of the women but also gave a serious blow to the healthy life of their families and the society at large.

She said that there were 64 different cases of violence committed against women in 2003.The respective figures for the corresponding years of 2004, 2005, 2007, 2008 and 2009 (till October) are 168, 102, 99, 165 and 180.This figures cover only the incidents reported in daily papers published in the State, Sobita said.

Tamthing Ruivanao said that all need to understand and respect human values in order to mitigate cases of violence against women.

In addition to understanding their responsibilities, all women should be active in pursuing their rights, Tamthing said.

Three women who have survived different cases of violence committed against them recounted their bitter experiences during the inaugural function of the observance themed 'Commit, Act, Demand-We Can End Violence Against Women'.

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