DIMAPUR, JULY 9 (MExN): Amid rising cases of sexual crimes against children in Nagaland, the Indian Academy of Paediatrics (IAP) Nagaland, Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), and the Western Sumi Youth Front (WSYF) have strongly condemned the recent molestation of a minor girl at New Market, Dimapur and called for urgent legal and societal action to protect children.
Expressing grave concern over the growing number of sexual abuse cases involving minors, the IAP Nagaland cited data from the Nagaland State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, which recorded 23 cases registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act in 2023. Of these, 18 involved perpetrators known to the victims.
Dr Akumtoshi, President of IAP Nagaland and Executive Board Member of Central IAP, urged the authorities to take stringent action against the offenders and implement robust preventive measures. “The community must exercise heightened vigilance to ensure child safety. All schools should impart age-appropriate sex education and create awareness. Support groups for survivors and their families are essential for emotional and psychological healing,” he said.
In a separate statement, the DCCI expressed shock over the July 4 incident in which a shopkeeper at New Market was accused of molesting a minor girl. The business body condemned the crime, urged fellow traders to remain vigilant, and appreciated the City Police for the prompt arrest of the accused. It also thanked the local GB and the New Market Business Owners’ Association for helping maintain peace following the incident.
Standing in solidarity with the victim and her family, the DCCI demanded that the accused be given “befitting punishment” under the law and warned that such acts could not be tolerated in any civil society.
Echoing similar sentiments, the Western Sumi Youth Front (WSYF) also denounced the act and identified the accused as Ali Mortuja, son of Abdul Latif. WSYF termed the crime a “violation of human dignity and justice” and submitted a charter of demands, including fast-tracking the trial, maximum punishment, immediate revocation of the accused’s trade license and residence certificate, and his expulsion from Nagaland.
The youth body warned of strong opposition if authorities failed to act decisively. “Any individual or entity found shielding such acts will be deemed to have rejected societal values and will face total ostracism,” WSYF stated, adding that it remained committed to a society free from violence, exploitation, and injustice.
