SHILLONG: International day for the elimination of violence against women was observed by the Seng Kynthei Unitarian Union North East India (UUNEI) at Unitarian Church Hall, Madan Laban on Wednesday.
In a statement, Dr Rica Lamar, Vice Chairperson, Meghalaya State Commission for Women said despite Meghalaya being matrilineal society crimes against women is increasing.
“Over the years figures of crimes against women rise, indicating that in the year 2014 there are over 480 cases of crime and violence against women where 118 are rape cases. 38 cases of violence against the girls and 42 cases are listed as domestic violence while in 2015 from January till August there are over 285 cases of crime against women,” Lamar informed.
She further added that violence against women has prevented progress on various societal issues that are the bane of every society, which includes poverty eradication, peace initiatives, combating HIV / AIDS among others.
“Crimes against women are a violation of human rights violation which results from the discriminatory attitude towards women. Women have experienced some form of physical and or sexual violence in their lifetime with up to seven in ten women facing this abuse in some countries,” Lamar said.
She also said that mass awareness will be held to sensitize the people on the issue to bring about strong measures, at the same time she urged women to come forward if faced with such experiences.
Similarly, Rev. Derrick Pariat, President of the Unitarian Union Northeast India said that all church bodies to take the initiative to enlighten the people about the issue. He urged men to be understanding towards women and to treat women without any discrimination.
