Wokha: Call for collective action against child marriage

Morung Express NewsWokha | October 11The District Administration, Wokha, in collaboration with the Social Welfare Department, District Hub for Empowerment of Women (DHEW), Sakhi-One Stop Centre (OSC) and District Child Protection Unit (DCPU) under Mission Vatsalya, observed the International Day of the Girl Child 2026 at Tiyi Hall, Wokha, on October 10 under the theme ‘End Child Marriage & Invest in Girls’ Rights.’The programme aimed to raise awareness about girls’ rights, safety, education and empowerment, with particular emphasis on preventing child marriage and ensuring a supportive environment for every girl child.The programme began with competitions for school students, including a quiz, fun and frolic activities, and poetry recitation. Students from schools across the district participated, showcasing their knowledge, creativity and confidence.Delivering the keynote address, Bonathung Ngullie, DPO/DNO, Mission Shakti, Wokha, encouraged girl students to continue their education, remain focused on their ambitions and strive for success. Referring to NFHS-5 data, he highlighted the prevalence of child marriage, particularly in rural areas, and the increasing risk of school dropout among adolescents aged 15–17.He urged students to identify positive role models, participate in constructive activities and make their families, teachers and communities proud. He also commended the participants for their confidence and encouraged them to take part in Mission Shakti activities.Thungbeni Kikon, Centre Administrator, Sakhi-OSC, Wokha, highlighted the challenges girls face due to early marriage and the burden of premature adult responsibilities. She described child marriage as a violation of human rights that deprives girls of their childhood, education, freedom and opportunities for a better future.Speaking on the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, she explained the legal provisions for preventing child marriage and noted that the minimum legal age for marriage in India is 18 years for girls and 21 years for boys. She stressed that legal measures must be supported by community awareness and collective efforts to challenge harmful social practices. She also urged families to ensure that girls remain in school and have the freedom to make informed choices about their futures.District Child Protection Officer Moasenla emphasised that every girl deserves education, protection, dignity, equality and the freedom to pursue her aspirations. She said a girl’s gender should never limit her opportunities, whether she wishes to become a teacher, doctor, officer, entrepreneur, artist or pursue any other profession.She stressed that protecting the girl child requires the collective responsibility of families, schools, communities, government departments and society. Calling for a safe and supportive environment, she encouraged girls to speak up for their rights, report abuse without fear and continue their education.“Your voice matters, your dreams matter, and you matter,” she told the gathering.Representing the District Administration, Extra Assistant Commissioner Thepfuzakie Sanchu highlighted the importance of safeguarding girls’ rights and ensuring equal opportunities in education, healthcare, safety and personal development.He observed that child marriage deprives girls of educational opportunities, restricts their choices and can expose them to early pregnancy and associated health and social challenges. He called for greater awareness, community participation, effective reporting mechanisms and timely intervention, particularly in cases that often remain unreported.Sanchu reaffirmed the District Administration’s commitment to working with concerned departments, schools, community leaders, families and other stakeholders to strengthen child protection and promote girls’ welfare. He called for collective efforts to make Wokha a child-marriage-free district, enabling every girl to complete her education, enjoy her childhood and pursue her aspirations with dignity and confidence.He also urged girls to understand their rights, value their education and speak up if they face pressure to marry early, discontinue their studies or encounter unsafe situations. Child Helpline 1098 was highlighted as an avenue for assistance and protection.The programme also featured a special song by Mhachoni P. Kikon and a presentation by Chonbeni R. Ezung, Case Worker, Sakhi-OSC. The session was chaired by Merithung Lotha, Gender Specialist, DHEW, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Wonchano E. Enny, District Mission Coordinator, DHEW, Wokha.Competition resultsTwelve schools participated in the quiz competition: Mount Sinai School, GHSS, Gilgale School, Santsuo School, Grace School, Brighter School, Isaiah Ability Higher Secondary School, SMBHS, Springdale School, Libemo Memorial Higher Secondary School, Cistus School and Perennial School. Perennial School, represented by Ekonrhoni L Ezung and Khonzani M Humtsoe, secured the first position. Isaiah Ability Higher Secondary School secured the second position.