In a major collaborative outreach initiative, the Nagaland State Commission for Women, in partnership with the National Commission for Women, is organizing ‘Mahila Jan Sunwai’ (Public Hearings) throughout the state from March 9 to 13. This initiative commemorates International Women’s Day and emphasizes a united commitment to women’s safety, dignity, and access to justice. The week-long drive is designed to provide women with a direct and accessible platform to voice their grievances and seek necessary institutional support.
The focus of ‘Mahila Jan Sunwai’ is on time-bound and efficient grievance redressal. Dedicated benches will consist of Chairpersons and Members from the Nagaland State Commission for Women, District Administration, District Legal Services Authority (DALSA), Police Authorities, Legal Experts, and Protection Officers. These entities will ensure immediate hearings of complaints, registration and escalation of serious cases, provision of legal guidance and procedural assistance, and systematic follow-up to address grievances effectively. Additionally, walk-in complaints will be accommodated during these hearings.
This initiative directly addresses the barriers women, particularly from rural areas, face in accessing justice by bringing the grievance redressal mechanisms to the grassroots level. It aims to bridge institutional gaps and offer prompt support, thus strengthening grassroots access to justice.
The ‘Mahila Jan Sunwai’ serves as an acknowledgment of International Women’s Day, moving beyond mere symbolism towards concrete justice delivery and empowerment for women. It reflects the collective resolve to establish safer and more responsive systems for women throughout India. The public hearings are scheduled at various locations: at the DC’s conference hall in Tuensang, Zunheboto, Tseminyu, and Wokha on March 9; in Mokokchung and Niuland on March 10; at Chumoukedima on March 11; and finally, in Longleng and Peren on March 12, and in Mon, Kohima, and Dimapur on March 13.
