Dimapur, May 29 (MExN): Several organisations and leaders across Nagaland today condemned the alleged sexual assault and physical abuse of a minor girl in Dimapur, demanding a fair and expeditious investigation and strict legal action against all those allegedly involved in the case.
Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, S. Phangnon Konyak stated that such “heinous and inhuman acts have no place in a civilized society.” In a statement, the MP informed that she had spoken to the Commissioner of Police, Dimapur, and was apprised that police had taken proactive cognisance of the matter and that progress was being made in the investigation. She further stressed that “the identity, dignity and rights of the minor must be safeguarded at all costs” and called upon society to stand united in ensuring the safety, protection and dignity of every child.
Deputy Chief Minister, Yanthungo Patton stated that crimes against children are among the gravest offences and have no place in a civilised society. He conveyed his solidarity with the survivor and the family during this difficult time.
He noted that the police have taken prompt cognisance of the matter and that the investigation is progressing. He expressed confidence in the law enforcement agencies and directed that all necessary steps be taken to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation so that justice is delivered in accordance with the law.
The Chang Wedoshi Setshang urged competent law enforcement authorities to conduct a “fair, thorough and impartial investigation” under the provisions of the POCSO Act and other applicable laws and to ensure appropriate legal action against the accused without delay.
The Dimapur Ao Youth Organization said the emotional, psychological and social impact of such incidents could be profound and called for all efforts to ensure that the survivor receives protection, care and support throughout the legal process. DAYO also urged authorities to ensure that the investigation is conducted in a “fair, transparent and expeditious manner,” while maintaining due regard to the rights of the victim and the interests of justice.
The Khiamniungan Students' Union Dimapur said such a “heinous and inhumane act is completely unacceptable and has no place in a civilized society, regardless of an individual's status, influence, or power.” KSUD stated that it stood in solidarity with the victim and her family and also extended support to the Chang Union Dimapur and the Chang Students’ Union Dimapur in demanding justice. It urged authorities to conduct a “fair, prompt and thorough investigation” and asserted that individuals involved in such crimes “must be prosecuted under the law without prejudice.” The union further appealed to society not to adopt a “forgive and forget” approach in such serious crimes.
The Nagaland Alliance for Children’s and Women’s Rights condemned what it described as the “horrific rape and the physical and mental abuse of a minor.” The organisation said the incident constituted “a grave violation of the dignity, safety, and fundamental rights of the child.” It expressed solidarity with the survivor and her family and appealed to the competent authorities to revoke the anticipatory bail granted to the accused and ensure a “fair, impartial and thorough investigation.” The alliance also called for immediate and appropriate action under the POCSO Act and other relevant laws.
The Nagaland Transparency Public Rights Advocacy and Direct Action Organization said it was “shocked and saddened” that a former student leader stood accused of such a crime. The organisation urged law enforcement agencies to ensure the “severest punishment as per the law of the land” and cautioned that it would be compelled to mobilise and agitate in the event of “mismanagement or inaction by the authorities.”
.JPG)
