With a steadfast vision to uphold women’s rights and advance gender justice in the North Eastern Region (NER), North East Network (NEN) joined the global and national community in solidarity to observe the 2026 One Billion Rising movement on 14th February 2026. The campaign was observed in Assam, Meghalaya, and Nagaland under the global theme “Rise for Our Bodies, Our Earth, Our Future.”
Rising in NEN Assam
In Assam, the campaign was conducted across five districts in Assam: Golaghat, Darrang, Udalguri, Kamrup (Gramin), and Dhemaji — reaching a total of 267 participants.
In Golaghat, the campaign team collaborated with Birangana Sati Sadhani Rajyik Vishwavidyalaya and the Social Welfare Department to organise the Rising. The campaign brought together peer leaders, youth collectives, and members of NEN support groups through open mic sessions, who united in solidarity to stand against gender-based violence. The observance served as a platform to amplify voices demanding dignity, safety, and justice.
Rising in NEN Nagaland
In Nagaland, the campaign was observed at the Futsal Ground of G.M. Government High School, Chizami Village, Phek District. The team used sports such as futsal, tug of war, and volleyball, among others, to interactively engage with the community in an effort to promote inclusion and teamwork, and strengthen solidarity in standing against gender-based violence and building safer communities.
The campaign was organised in collaboration with Nenterprise–Chizami Weaves and Combined Youth Fellowship. The event successfully brought together 152 participants from six youth departments of the Christian Youth Endeavour (CYE): Yosaba, Enhulumi, Pfutsemi, Chizami, Chizami Town, and Sumi.
The awareness session was led by Ms Neingupeu K. Rhakho, the former women secretary of Chakhesang Baptist Church Council, who inspired the youth to become changemakers within their families and communities. She spoke about the various forms of violence — physical, sexual, verbal, and even harmful thoughts — and emphasised the shared responsibility of individuals and communities to protect one another and safeguard the environment. Her message reinforced collective accountability for both people and the planet.
Rising in NEN Meghalaya
In Meghalaya, the campaign was celebrated in three districts — East Khasi Hills, West Khasi Hills, and Eastern West Khasi Hills — witnessing the active participation of 180 people.
In Umsaw, West Khasi Hills (WKH), an Open Mic was organised with the community, where youth and support groups showcased their talents through songs, dance, and poetry.
In Smit, East Khasi Hills (EKH), a flash mob and street play were performed by youth trained by NEN. A session on laws and legal rights for women and children was delivered by NEN Community Mobiliser, Bajoplin Kharmudai.
Similarly, in Markasa, Eastern West Khasi Hills (EWKH), youth from Khartein and Wahliewlong presented a flash mob and street play to stand in solidarity against gender-based violence (GBV).
Ms. Eureka Myrthong, Assistant Legal Aid Defense Counsel (ALADC), District Legal Services Authority, Nongstoin, West Khasi Hills District, addressed participants on laws and legal rights for women and children. The session enhanced awareness of existing legal protections and mechanisms available to survivors of violence, empowering community members with essential legal knowledge.
