DIMAPUR, JUNE 19 (MExN): The Phom Union Tuensang Town (PUTT) today demanded stringent punishment to the accused in the rape of two minor girls, aged 5 and 7, on June 15 in Tuensang.
In a letter to the Tuensang Deputy Commissioner, the union noted that the accused, reported to be 21 years of age, is under police custody and said that he has “confessed to his crime.” It further informed that “medical examination on the victims has confirmed rape.” It asked that the accused be booked under relevant sections of the law and that no bail be granted under any circumstances.
The union further stated that since the victims are minors, the case “attracts the wrap of POSCO Act against the culprit,” and requested that necessary measures be taken to provide care and protection to the victims and their parents immediately.
ENWO condemns ‘culture of silence’
The Eastern Nagaland Women Organisation (ENWO) also condemned the incident and expressed concern at the rising incidence of heinous crimes against women and girls in the state.
The recent incident, it stated “is a crime against women and violation of women’s right to a life free from perpetual threats of rape and sexual assaults both inside and outside their home.”
The ENWO called on the Tuensang Police and the justice delivery system to carry out their duty efficiently and time bound investigation be done to ensure a speedy trial leading to stringent punishment to the culprit. It also asked for implementation of procedures mandated under Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012 (POCSO) with regard to recording statements, special courts, provision of support person, time bound charge sheet and appointment of special prosecutors etc.
A press note from Ayong Chang, President ENWO reiterated that crime against women continues in spite of unrelenting campaign by various women groups, legal service authorities and civil societies. “Silent witness to everyday form of sexual assault such as leering, groping, passing comments, stalking and whistling are equally responsible for rape embedded in our culture and hence being so prevalent today,” it stated.
The ENWO condemned what it termed was a “culture of silence and tolerance for rape and sexual assault and the culture of valorising this kind of crimes.”
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