CTS demands swift justice in Dimapur minor assault case

Morung Express News
Tuensang | June 1

The Changsao Thangjam Setshang (CTS), Tuensang, has expressed deep concern over the “larger social and institutional failures” surrounding the alleged sexual assault of a minor student in Dimapur, while demanding swift justice and stronger protection mechanisms for children living away from home for education.

Following the recent condemnation statement issued by the Chang women organisation (CTS), the organisation said, “the case had exposed vulnerabilities faced by minors staying away from their families and highlighted the fear many victims experience in reporting abuse.”

The CTS had earlier condemned the alleged sexual assault of a minor student by accused O Watimeren of Lingrijan Colony, Dimapur, and appealed for a “swift, transparent and thorough investigation” under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

During an interaction with this correspondent, the organisation said its intervention went beyond issuing a public condemnation and was aimed at ensuring sustained pressure for justice. “The CTS and Dimapur Changsao Thangjam were in constant touch and working closely with the appropriate unions regarding the incident,” it stated, adding that “if local bodies in Dimapur were unable to secure justice for the victim, the matter would be pursued further through the organisation’s wider network.”

The CTS said its biggest concern was ensuring accountability and addressing the long-term trauma faced by the survivor and her family. “To ensure that the culprit is held accountable for his inhuman act and that justice is served to the victim,” it said, adding that the psychological trauma, future wellbeing of the child and the impact on the family remained matters of grave concern.

CTS further observed that minors staying away from home for educational purposes could be particularly vulnerable, a concern increasingly being raised by civil society groups in the wake of the case.

It also acknowledged that fear and silence often prevent victims from speaking out, stressing the need for greater awareness and support systems within communities.

When asked about the progress of the investigation, the CTS said, “it was not fully satisfied with the police action so far” and called for a broader probe into whether others may have been involved. However, no official confirmation regarding additional accused has been made by investigating authorities.

The organisation additionally hinted at concerns over “possible influence or indifference surrounding the case,” though it did not elaborate further.

Beyond legal action, CTS stressed the need for long-term preventive measures, including awareness programmes in villages, community seminars and access to psychological counselling for survivors of abuse.

The case has triggered widespread outrage across Nagaland, with several organisations issuing condemnation statements and demanding strict punishment under the POCSO Act.