DIMAPUR, JUNE 23 (MExN): The Chakhesang Students Union Dimapur (CSUD) has express disappointment in regard to the recent press conference given by the President of the DDADU with regard to the June 15 alleged molestation incident.
A press release from the CSUD said that it is “appalled to know, how a union and it's representatives were considered and allowed to interrogate the accused auto driver and share his narrative in the public domain, as seen in the press conference when it was under judicial custody and investigation.”
The union also expressed resentment to the and the president for giving a press conference based on “one sided narrative.” “With regard to the case and investigation going on, everyone must be reasoning with their own sources. However, bringing up the statement in the public domain, which should have been considered, citing the sensitivity of the incident speaks volume in itself,” it added.
The CSUD said that the DDADU should have approached the apex bodies or victim’s family and move forward. “The union also provoked its thoughts where and in what situation or incident compels a young lady to jump from a moving auto on a highway and put her life at risk. What is so difficult for the driver to hear or understand. It could be of very rare cases of this kind that a lady jumps off a moving auto to save her dignity,” it stated.
It expressed hope that the law enforcement agencies and judiciary would “safeguard our rights and bring justice to our sister.” It further said that “such press conferences in the future should be considered and dealt more sensibly. Let this not bring any misunderstanding among the society.”
NACWR condemns
The Nagaland Alliance for Children and Women Rights (NACWR) today meanwhile also condemned the alleged abduction and molestation incident.
Calling the incident “a grave violation of human dignity and safety,” NACWR said it was a stark reminder of the urgent need to address gender-based violence in the state.
“This is not a lone incident of gender-based violence happening in Nagaland. It is increasing at an alarming rate—some of which are reported, and many remain unreported due to social stigma and fear of retribution,” the organisation stated.
In a joint statement issued by President Azungla Imsong James and General Secretary Jenpu Rhakho Rongmei, NACWR expressed solidarity with the victim and urged the Government of Nagaland and law enforcement agencies to ensure stringent punishment for the accused.
The organisation also called for serious and urgent intervention by the government, civil society organisations, and all stakeholders to address the rising instances of gender-based violence, crimes against women, bullying in educational institutions, and child abuse.
“Collective effort, policy enforcement, and a commitment to justice and protection are crucial to creating a safe and just environment for women and children in Nagaland,” the NACWR added, while appealing for immediate action to prevent such incidents.
