A large group of people join the public rally organised by various organizations in Tuensang on June 9. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Tuensang | June 9
More than 3,000 people gathered at Tuensang Town Hall on Tuesday to demand swift justice for a 14-year-old girl who was allegedly subjected to sexual assault by three accused persons in Dimapur over an extended period.
The public rally, organised by various tribal bodies, women organizations, student unions and civil society groups, began with a peaceful procession from Loyem Memorial Astro Turf to Town Hall, where speakers condemned the alleged crime and called for speedy legal action against the accused.
The Chang Wedoshi Setshang (CWS) President C Sanglekhumba questioned how many similar cases remain unreported and hidden from public knowledge. “This is only one case that has come to light. How many more remain unrevealed?” he asked.
He cautioned against waiting until such crimes affect one’s own family before taking action. “People often ask, ‘What if this happened to your daughter or family?’ That is the wrong question. Why should we wait for such things to happen before we act?” he said.
Citing studies indicating that a large percentage of child sexual abuse cases occur within familiar environments, he stressed that “insecurity among women and young girls remains a serious concern” and called upon the public to take collective responsibility for child protection.
Sanglekhumba also outlined the efforts undertaken by CWS and CTS leaders, who travelled to Dimapur on June 3 to meet the Commissioner of Police and later submitted a representation to the Director General of Police, Nagaland. The organizations demanded that the charge sheet be filed within 60 days, that the accused be awarded befitting punishment under the law, that adequate compensation be provided to the victim, and that no bail be granted to the accused persons.
Delivering the keynote address, the Changsao Thangjam Setshang (CTS) President Thonti stated that the case was a grave violation of human rights and expressed anguish as a mother over the suffering endured by the victim.
Recounting details of the alleged abuse, she said that the victim had reportedly been subjected to intimidation, coercion and prolonged exploitation, resulting in immense physical and emotional trauma. “This is not only an assault on a young girl but a violation of human rights. The torture and suffering she has endured are beyond words,” she said, adding that the incident should serve as a wake-up call for society to stand against sexual violence in all forms.
Representatives of various apex tribal organizations also voiced solidarity with the victim and her family.
A representative of Chang Khulei Setshang (CKS) questioned the moral direction of society, stating, “Where is Nagaland for Christ? Where are we heading towards?” He condemned the alleged abuse of a minor girl over a prolonged period and urged Nagas to remain vigilant and united against such crimes.
“This incident has sparked a fire. There should be no place for such acts in our state,” he said.
United Sangtam Likhum Pumji (USLP) President K Aliba appealed to the gathering to view the incident from the perspective of a parent. “Think of her as your own daughter, your own blood. Who would even imagine committing such a crime?” he remarked.
A representative of Yimkhiungliber Arih Ako (YAA) expressed grief over the shattered aspirations of the victim. “We send our daughters hoping they will succeed and become somebody in life. No one expects their future to be destroyed in this manner,” the representative said.
The Tikhir Women Association Tuensang Town, while expressing solidarity with the victim, stressed that no girl child should have to grow up in fear and that women must not be silenced when speaking for their rights. “Pain knows no tribe,” the organization stated, while calling upon educational institutions, community organizations and government agencies to actively promote awareness on child safety and protection.
An awareness session on child rights and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 was conducted by CTS Vice President Mary, who emphasised the need for greater vigilance among parents, teachers and community leaders. “Every touch is not a sign of love,” she said, urging adults to educate children about personal safety and encourage them to report inappropriate behaviour.
Earlier, the President of Chang Women Organization called upon women across all tribal communities to unite in seeking justice for the victim and ensuring accountability. “Justice delayed is justice denied,” she said. Speaking on behalf of the Chang community, the CWS President also urged law-enforcing agencies to ensure that justice is delivered without delay and that the accused are dealt with according to the law.
The rally concluded with a collective prayer for the victim and her family, while participants pledged continued support in the pursuit of justice and stronger protection mechanisms for women and children across Nagaland.
