Kohima, February 2 (MExN): Various organizations today severely condemned the rape of a minor girl with disability in Kohima on January 30.
The State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities Dr. Atha Vizol in a press release stated that in the midst of the government working on policies for the protection and promotion of the rights of persons with disability and trying to implement the various schemes for the welfare of persons with disabilities, a police personnel has terribly failed to carry out his responsibility, which is to give special protection to special persons. Dr. Vizol urged for strongest punishment to the accused and said “it is the duty of every citizen to protect the rights of the differently abled persons to have a good normal life with society.”
The Nagaland State Disability Forum (NDSF) meanwhile stated: “Even as we struggle to be heard as we fight for our rights, we are truly appalled to hear that such a heinous crime has been committed by someone who is charged with the responsibility of protecting the vulnerable sections of society.” The forum called for speedy investigation and demanded that the accused be not given bail. It further asked the concerned authorities that the victim is given necessary and proper counselling and that she and her family are given due protection from harassment and pressure. All necessary assistance as per the law must be extended by the concerned government agencies, the forum said.
The Nagaland Parents’ Association for Disabled (NAPAD) meanwhile appealed that the accused be not given bail and that the victim be compensated and rehabilitated properly by the government.
The Rengma Public Organisation (RPO), Kohima condemned the crime and urged the law enforcement agency/ authority concerned not to show any leniency, but take befitting and exemplary punishment against the accused.
The staff and students of Tabitha Enabling Academy said that the authority should not compromise on the issue but award befitting and exemplary punishment to the accused. “This will help give the confidence to those who cannot stand up to speak for themselves and defend their rights.”
