Nagaland observes International Human Rights Day with events by NSHRC at St. Joseph University, ACID in Dimapur, and district administration in Kiphire.
Share
DIMAPUR — International Human Rights Day was observed across Nagaland on Wednesday on the theme “Our everyday essentials”.
The Nagaland State Human Rights Commission (NSHRC) organised a programme at St. Joseph University, Chümoukedima, while the Assisi Centre for Integrated Development (ACID) and the district administration, Kiphire, held separate events to mark the occasion.
NSHRC at St. Joseph University
NSHRC marked the day by organising an awareness programme in collaboration with St. Joseph University (SJU), Chümoukedima. According to an update, the event aimed to educate the youth on the fundamental principles and legal framework protecting human rights.
R Nazanbemo Lotha, member, NSHRC, delivered the first key address, focusing on the “Protection of Human Rights Act”. He highlighted the NSHRC’s status as the youngest commission in the country, having been established just two years ago.
He focused his presentation on the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, urging the student community to ignite their research minds and understand the aims and objectives of this significant piece of legislation. He stated that the Act's key objective is to protect human rights related to the life and dignity of every human being.
Furthermore, he clarified that the Act grants the State Human Rights Commission the powerful tool of suo moto, authorising government authorities to initiate investigations or proceedings to address injustices, explicitly noting that this power is not held by armed forces or private individuals.
Justice Songkhupchung Serto, chairman of the NSHRC, delivered the second speech on “The importance of protecting and promoting human rights in today’s context”.
Justice Serto discussed how human rights became a global concern following the destruction and suffering of World War II, which led to the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the United Nations in 1948.
He explained that the UDHR, comprising 30 articles, promotes dignity, equality, justice, and peace and was established to prevent war and ensure freedom for all. The chairman stressed that the protection of human rights remains essential today, as wars often stem from greed and discrimination.
He summarised that human rights safeguard the inherent dignity of every person, ensure equality, prevent the abuse of power, and create the foundation for peace and development. He underscored the interconnectedness of global goals by stating, “There is no peace if there is no development, and without peace, development cannot exist."
Justice Serto concluded by noting that the verse from Matthew 7:12—“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you”—perfectly reflects the core spirit of human rights: respect, fairness, and compassion for all.
ACID observes day in Dimapur
The Assisi Centre for Integrated Development (ACID) and National Domestic Workers Movement Nagaland Region observed the day at Assisi Hall in Lakeview Colony, Dimapur.
Jobina Varghese, director of ACID, in her welcome address highlighted the significance of the day and stated that it is observed to spread awareness about human rights and to promote peace, dignity and respect for all.
The guest speaker, Advocate Zuchumpeni, a panel lawyer at DDLSA, in her speech stated that human rights are basic freedoms and entitlements belonging to every person. She underlined the origin and significance of the UDHR, and explained how it laid the foundation for protecting human dignity, equality and justice across the world.
Maya Sahu delivered a message urging the participants to be strong and courageous to stand up for their rights. Asela Sangtam, president of the Nagaland Domestic Workers Union, in her concluding remarks, encouraged the audience to stand for truth and justice without fear, to promote human rights for all, and to foster a culture of respect, dignity, and justice.
The programme was attended by 185 participants.
Programme held in Kiphire
The 16 days of Activism against Gender Based Violence and International Human Rights Day 2025 was held at DPDB Hall, Kiphire.
According to a DIPR report, the programme was organised by the district administration and Mission Shakti, featuring thematic messages and special addresses.
A panel discussion on ‘Strengthening district system for prevention of violence against women and girls’ was held with panellists Ripise, BPM, NSRLM, Kiphire Block; Lithsa, Lihpikihna Org.; Berela, district project associate, Kiphire; and Nancy Sangtam, associate secretary, Christian Education USBLA.
The welcome address was delivered by Takatemjen Pongen, EAC Kiphire, who stressed helping to end violence against women and girls. A pledge was administered by Asheto, accounts assistant, Mission Shakti (DHEW), Kiphire.