Kohima: The Kohima District Legal Services Authority ran a legal awareness program at Government High School Kandinu on September 25. Para-Legal Volunteer Mary Nsu chaired the event, while Pastor Mehaimo Kath opened with an invocation. Headmaster Hisinlo Keppen delivered the welcome address.
Retainer Lawyer Nagali Shohe led the first session for students, teachers, and leaders. She focused on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act of 2012. Shohe defined sexual assault and harassment offences while detailing maximum prison terms. She taught kids about the difference between good and bad touch. Reporting is vital. Shohe noted that authorities must handle these cases with child-friendly methods to shield a victim's identity. She also covered the Juvenile Justice Act and the Victim Compensation Scheme. She told the attendees to use the Child Helpline at 1098 if they witness any crime.
Panel Lawyer Haiyale Kath directed the second session at school staff. She unpacked the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act of 2013, known as the PoSH Act. She explained how digital, verbal, and physical harassment remain punishable even outside the office. Kath identified current harassment trends in Nagaland. She emphasized that an aggrieved woman can file a complaint or have someone file it for her. Her primary directive involved workplace safety: "She stressed the mandatory constitution of an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), the penalty for failing to constitute such a committee and the need to ensure dignity and a safe working environment for women." Attendees participated in a final Q and A session to clarify their rights.
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