Dimapur, June 1 (MExN): Several civil society organisations, women's bodies and rights groups have strongly condemned the alleged sexual assault of a minor girl in Dimapur and demanded a thorough, impartial and time-bound investigation to ensure justice for the survivor.
The organisations expressed solidarity with the minor and her family while urging authorities to ensure her safety, privacy, rehabilitation and psychological support.
The Naga Mothers' Association (NMA) condemned the alleged assault and expressed concern that the accused was reportedly entrusted with the child's care. The organisation called for a comprehensive investigation into the case and all persons allegedly involved, while assuring the survivor and her family of its support. It also urged the government to prioritise the victim's safety, counselling and rehabilitation.
The International Human Rights Council (IHRC), Nagaland State Chapter, described the case as deeply disturbing and said it had shaken the conscience of society. The body appealed for a fast-track and transparent investigation and stressed the need for justice without delay.
It also sought appropriate medical care, compensation and rehabilitation measures for the victim. The organisation appreciated the arrest of a second accused, identified as Tsuktimongba, and welcomed the denial of anticipatory bail to the main accused by the court.
The NPF Central Women Wing condemned the incident as a grave violation of a child's dignity and rights. It demanded action under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, besides seeking a time-bound investigation, fast-track trial, medical and psychological support for the survivor, and protection against intimidation or coercion.
Watsü Mungdang also condemned the alleged crime and reiterated its demand for a thorough, impartial and time-bound investigation following the arrest of the second accused. The organisation said crimes against children strike at the very fabric of society and called for collective efforts to protect children's rights and safety.
The Khiamniungan Menyiu Hoikam Dimapur (KMHD) expressed solidarity with the survivor and her family and urged law enforcement and judicial authorities to ensure swift and impartial action. It stressed that accountability in crimes against children must not be delayed.
The Nagaland NCC Alumni Association termed the alleged assault a grave violation of human dignity and children's rights. It called for a thorough investigation and reiterated its zero-tolerance stance against crimes involving minors.
The Tikhir Union Dimapur condemned the alleged prolonged abuse of the minor and demanded strict legal action against all accused persons under relevant provisions of the law. The union also extended support to the survivor, her family and the concerned community organisations.
The Western Yimkhiung Liberü Arihako (WYLA) expressed outrage over the incident and appealed to law enforcement agencies to conduct a fast-track investigation and ensure swift justice.
The Pochury Women Hoho Western Nagaland condemned the alleged prolonged sexual assault and exploitation and called for swift justice in the case, while urging the investigating agencies to conduct an expeditious probe and ensure that justice is delivered without delay.
The organisations collectively emphasised that crimes against children cannot be tolerated and urged society to work together to create a safe environment for women and children while ensuring that justice is delivered without delay.