From Our Correspondent
JOWAI, Jan 17: In a major step towards the protection of women and children rights, health, education and future, the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), East Jaintia Hills, on Thursday organised a legal awareness programme under the theme ‘Ghar Ghar Mein Nyay Ki Jagriti’ on crime against women (POSH Act) and the prevention of child marriage campaign at Khaidong village in East Jaintia Hills.
The programme was attended by Legal Aid Counsel, DLSA East Jaintia Hills, PN Swer, Khaidong village headman D. Sutnga, community members and others.
During the programme, Swer spoke on key legislations aimed at protecting women and children. He elaborated on the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, stating that any form of physical, emotional or economic abuse within the household is punishable under the law. He also informed that negligence by a husband in providing basic necessities to his wife and children can be reported to the court, which may order maintenance and child support.
He then highlighted the Sexual Harassment of Women at the Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, commonly known as the POSH Act, explaining that women have the right to object to inappropriate behaviour and seek legal remedies if harassment persists, including compensation for emotional trauma.
Furthermore, emphasising that women should not accept abuse as fate, he stated that the law stands firmly in their support.
While speaking on child marriage, he warned that marriage below the age of 18 is a punishable offence under the law and stressed the long-term social, educational and health consequences of early marriage. He encouraged the community to promote education and skill development, noting that basic literacy is essential to access various training and livelihood opportunities available today.
He further cautioned against the misuse of protective laws, stating that false accusations are also punishable under the law.
