Over Rs 67 lakh approved under Nagaland Victim Compensation Scheme for 29 cases

Kohima, July 22 (MExN): The Nagaland State Legal Services Authority (NSLSA) has sanctioned a total amount of Rs. 67,26,000 under the Nagaland Victim Compensation Scheme (NVCS) 2012 for a total of 29 cases in 2020.

Out of the total cases, 9 were that of victims of rape, 11 involved loss of life, and 7 were sexual assault and physical abuse cases.  Out of the total applications received, 15 were minors.

The scheme has been introduced for the purpose of compensation to the victims or dependents who have suffered loss or injury as a result of crime and for those who require rehabilitation.

The compensation is awarded to the family member and dependents of the victims and distribution by District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs) started in the month of July, NSLSA informed on Thursday.

Applications can be made before the Legal Services Authority of the State along with attached copies of the FIR, medical reports, and the copy of judgment or recommendation if the case has been disposed.

After scrutiny, the compensation is awarded based on factors such as the gravity of the offence, loss of livelihood, and in case of death- their age, monthly income, number of dependents, whether the crime was an isolated incident or part of a series over a period of time.

During 2020, a total of 6 applications were recommended by the Court and 18 were filed by claimants/victims and 5 were from police, administration, organizations and others. 8 cases were from Kohima, 6 from Dimapur, 5 from Mokokchung, 5 from Mon and 1 each from Zunheboto, Tuensang and Phek.

All applications were considered and compensations were sanctioned.

The NSLSA, meanwhile, informed that there is no specific budget allocated for Victim Compensation. Relief and rehabilitation is accommodated by the Home department according to the application received from NSLSA and DLSAs, it added.