Meghalaya has recorded 58 per cent cases involving sexual offences. This revelation comes at the launch of the “NEYI CHETNA 2.0” National Gender Campaign at the state level organised by Meghalaya State Rural Livelihoods Society (MSRLS) on Monday at state central Library, Shillong.
Highlighting the pressing need to address the widespread concern of escalating gender-based violence against women, it was revealed that Meghalaya has 58% of reported cases involving sexual offences, as disclosed in the Meghalaya Police website portal. Notably, the period from 2007 to 2022 recorded the highest instances of cases falling under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012.
As part of its comprehensive efforts, Meghalaya has successfully promoted 45 thousand Self-Help Groups (SHGs), engaging almost 4 ½ lakh women as active members across the state. This revelation comes amidst recent efforts, including the launch of the “NEYI CHETNA 2.0” in the State today.
The event witnessed the presence of Deputy Commissioner, East Khasi Hills District, R.M Kurbah, IAS, Sampath Kumar, IAS, Principal Secretary & Development Commissioner, Community and Rural Development (C&RD) Department, Mr. Ronald Kynta, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Meghalaya State Rural Livelihoods Society (MSRLS), and other senior officials, along with Self-Help Groups (SHGs) Cluster Level Federation (CLF), Community Cadres, and Village Headmen, among other dignitaries.
Dr. Ampareen Lyngdoh, Meghalaya Health Minister, participated in the event virtually. In her speech, she underscored that gender-based violence, specifically violence against women and girls, is a global pandemic. According to estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1 in 3 women worldwide has encountered either physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. Dr. Ampareen remarked that this day holds special significance for women’s emancipation. She noted that this generation is marked by active participation, and in states like Meghalaya, significant progress has been made after years of testing NRLM programs. Highlighting the state’s advancement in forming community-driven organizations within the livelihood mission, she acknowledged the challenges that come with such mission-mode activities.
Furthermore, Dr. Ampareen stated, “In the ongoing NRLM program, we anticipate facing challenges. Currently, the program is directed towards recognizing women in their natural settings. This poses a substantial challenge, not only for the women themselves but also for those around them.”
DC, in her address explained that the greatest role in bringing in change is that of the community. Community based solutions are the only way to tackle ingrained societal problems.
’As we commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, it’s essential for each of us to reflect on our contributions. The notion that women bear the brunt of responsibilities is a common perception, and today prompts us to assess our actions. We must question whether anyone, regardless of gender, deserves to face violence, be it at home or school, especially children.’’
Emphasising that gender violence isn’t exclusive to females, she said it’s disheartening to acknowledge that even our young boys are not safe nowadays. She also extended her gratitude to the two ladies who were a part of SHGs members who shared their testimonies earlier in the day.
Principal Secretary on the other hand, emphasised the significance of the SHGs program not only in the state but across the entire country, considering it a crucial building block for the nation. He acknowledged SHGs as a systematic platform, where millions of women actively contribute to problem-solving. He further highlighted the significance of the community cadre in gender initiatives, stating, “This is a very important initiative that is also required. We really need to bring the knowledge of SHGs to urban areas.” Kumar also shed light on the impactful work happening within SHGs, addressing issues such as maternal mortality, resulting in a notable 40% reduction within a three-year period.
“SHGs are actively taking care, leading to a significant 40% reduction in less than a three-year period. There’s substantial participation occurring, and we should harness and leverage this network for even greater impact, ‘’ said Mr Sampath.
Appreciating the efforts of the MSRLS team in organizing the event, the Principal Secretary congratulated all participants, emphasizing the importance of attending such workshops. He further noted the increasing representation of women in Village Education Committees (VECs) and encouraged collaborative efforts between men and women for effective progress.
Data from NFHS – 5 shows that more than 77% women still do not report or talk about their experience of violence. Such findings, as well as experiences of violence of women SHG members across the country is what encouraged this initiative. The Nayi Chetna Campaign aims to advance the rights of women and gender-diverse individuals, for a life without fear, and gender-based discrimination and violence. The campaign was launched on 25 November,2023 and will be observed across 34 Indian states and UTs till 23 December. The annual campaign will be led by DAY-NRLM’s self-help groups network of over 9.8 crore rural women members with the spirit of a Jan Andolan or people’s movement.
Additionally, Ronald Kynta, Chief Operating Officer (COO), delivered a welcome address underscoring the significance of the gender campaign. He highlighted its launch in New Delhi and expressed pride in Meghalaya’s selection from the northeast, crediting the commendable efforts of SHGs, Village Organizations (VOs), and CLF. Kynta also informed that Meghalaya is planning to extend the campaign to district and block levels.
Encouraging the active participation of SHGs, Kynta urged them to report any such cases in their villages to the relevant authorities. Furthermore, he emphasized the need to leverage the SHGs network for establishing gender resource centers at the cluster level, spanning multiple villages to effectively address and combat instances of violence.
The event started with a welcoming song from Rimpei Village Organization in Mylliem. Followed by a video presentation featuring stories of violence against women. Following that, two individuals, Cheanny D. Sangma and Batskhem Lyngkhoi, shared how they helped victims of such violence as a part of the testimonials.
The cultural segment was also presented with a vibrant dance performance by the members of Jirang Block, adding a lively touch to the program. The event concluded with the felicitation of outstanding contributors, recognizing the best-performing Village Organizations (VOs), Cluster Level Federations (CLFs), Community Cadres, and Village Headmen for their noteworthy efforts in addressing gender issues.
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