Dimapur, Jan 24: Eastern Nagaland Women Organisation (ENWO) has appealed to various organisations in the State opposing ULBs elections to reconsider their stand and let the elections take place peacefully by respecting each others’ choice and opinions.
ENWO president, Birila Tokiu, and the vice president, Pejem Konyak, have thanked ENPO, ENLU, ENGOA, ENSF and all the tribal leaders for standing in support of the women’s reservation. It also urged upon them to stand by their women till the process of elections are over. It said women needed their blessings and support to be able to take the mantle of leadership roles in the form of town councillors.
ENWO also appealed to all Naga brethren who are opposed to women’s reservation to change their attitude towards women and start respecting their mothers through whom they came. It termed as too shocking for a Christian society like the Nagas that unchristian methods like banishment and excommunication of the candidates is taking place, ’taking the Naga Society back to the Dark Ages.’
‘If our Naga men truly respect their women, they must support the reservation policy for women in the ULBs because: Reservation of seats is the right instrument to empower women in the State as the power of decision making and leadership in society plays a vital role to empower a voice that is being constantly suppressed,’ ENWO statement said.
It also stated that reservation for women will also encourage and instil confidence in our women, adding unless reservation is granted they would hesitate to come forward. It has termed unfortunate that in a 60 member assembly not single members is a woman and yet still claim that men and women are treated equally in Nagaland.
It was of the view that women participation in the municipality level local self government will enable better understanding of women’s problems and facilitating their uplift.
It said women’s participation and contribution will be helpful in handling matters like hygiene, sanitation, health, waste management and other civic issues which are the primary role of municipal authorities as women have the inborn qualities and the experience gained while handling her own home, thus making her well trained in these matters.
It added that equal participation of every section of the society in the administrative process, especially at local level, such as a municipality is essential to a progressive society.
‘In a society where the concept of patriarchy has been deeply rooted, it becomes close to impossible for any woman to contest against a man. Therefore, the concept of reservation is important for truly empowering women in the state,’ the statement said adding giving reservation to women is the way to progressive thinking and action.
