DIMAPUR: Several student bodies, rights organisations and civil society groups have strongly condemned the alleged sexual assault and physical abuse of a minor girl in Dimapur, purportedly involving former student leader O. Watimeren Jamir and others, and have called for a fair investigation and strict legal action against those responsible.
Patton: Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton has expressed deep concern and strongly condemned the reported assault of a minor in Dimapur, describing the incident as disturbing and unacceptable.
In a press release, Patton stated that crimes against children are among the gravest offences and have no place in a civilised society. He conveyed his solidarity with the survivor and the family during this difficult time.
The Deputy Chief Minister noted that the police have taken prompt cognisance of the case and that the investigation is progressing. Expressing confidence in the law enforcement agencies, he directed that all necessary measures be taken to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation so that justice is delivered in accordance with the law.
Patton further stressed that the identity, privacy and dignity of the minor survivor must be protected at all times. He also urged all stakeholders, including the public and the media, to act responsibly and sensitively while dealing with the matter.
WSSU: The Western Sümi Students’ Union (WSSU) has strongly condemned the alleged sexual assault of a minor girl in Dimapur, describing the incident as a gross violation of a child’s dignity, safety and fundamental rights.
In a statement, the union expressed concern over the granting of anticipatory bail to the accused, stating that offences involving minors must be dealt with strictly under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.
WSSU said crimes against children should not be treated with leniency, warning that any action undermining the seriousness of such cases could weaken public confidence in the justice system and create fear and insecurity among women and children.
The union urged the authorities and the competent court to ensure a fair and impartial investigation, expedite legal proceedings, and reconsider the anticipatory bail granted to the accused. It also called for strict enforcement of the provisions of the POCSO Act and other relevant laws to ensure justice is delivered without delay.
Any action that weakens the seriousness of such cases risks damaging public confidence in the justice delivery system and creates fear and insecurity among women and children in society.
Expressing solidarity with the victim and her family, WSSU appealed to all sections of society to stand united against crimes targeting women and children and uphold the principles of justice, safety and human dignity.
HRHAN: The Human Rights Help Association Nagaland (HRHAN) has strongly condemned the alleged sexual assault of a minor girl in Dimapur, describing the incident as a barbaric and inhuman act that constitutes a grave violation of human dignity.
In a statement, the association expressed solidarity with the victim and her family and demanded immediate, fair and strict legal action against the accused. It asserted that crimes against children must be dealt with under the strictest provisions of the law without delay or leniency.
HRHAN urged the concerned authorities to ensure a swift investigation and deliver justice to the victim. The association stated that any negligence or delay in handling such sensitive cases weakens public confidence in the justice system and could encourage further crimes against minors.
KSUD: Khiamniungan Students’ Union Dimapur KSUD has strongly condemned the alleged sexual assault and physical abuse of a minor girl in Dimapur.
KSUD term the alleged incident a “heinous and inhumane act” that has no place in a civilized society, irrespective of an individual’s status or influence. The union expressed disappointment that a person regarded as highly educated and a former student leader is facing such serious allegations. It also extended support to the victim’s family, as well as to the Chang Union Dimapur (CUD) and Chang Students’ Union Dimapur (CSUD), in their pursuit of justice.
The union urged law enforcement agencies to conduct a fair, prompt and thorough investigation and ensure that all individuals allegedly involved are prosecuted in accordance with the law.
CWS: The Chang Wedoshi Setshang (Chang Students’ Conference) also strongly condemned the alleged sexual exploitation and physical assault of the minor, describing it as a grave violation of human dignity, fundamental rights and societal moral values. The organisation appealed to the competent authorities to carry out a fair, impartial and comprehensive investigation under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and other relevant laws, and to initiate appropriate legal proceedings without delay.
The conference stated that the incident underscores the need for stronger preventive measures, institutional accountability and greater societal vigilance to protect children from abuse and exploitation. It reiterated its commitment to the protection, dignity and welfare of students and expressed solidarity with the survivor.
NACWR: The Nagaland Alliance for Children’s and Women’s Rights (NACWR) condemned what it described as a horrific case of sexual violence and physical and mental abuse against a minor. The alliance expressed solidarity with the victim and her family and called upon authorities to ensure a fair, impartial and thorough investigation.
NACWR also appealed to the competent authorities to revoke the anticipatory bail reportedly granted to the accused and urged investigating agencies to take all necessary legal measures to ensure justice. It expressed confidence in the commissioner of police and law enforcement agencies while assuring support to the victim’s family and Chang civil society organisations.
The alliance further voiced concern over the increasing incidents of violence against children and women and called for prompt action under the POCSO Act and other applicable laws. It urged civil society organisations, churches, educational institutions and the public to unite against all forms of violence and exploitation, stating that silence and inaction only embolden perpetrators.
NTPRADAO: Nagaland Transparency Public Rights Advocacy and Direct Action Organization (NTPRADAO) also condemned the alleged assault, expressing shock that a former student leader entrusted with advocating for student welfare stands accused in such a case. The organisation extended solidarity to the Chang community and called on law enforcement agencies to ensure that those found guilty receive the maximum punishment permissible under law.
The organisation further cautioned that it would be compelled to launch democratic protests and public agitation if there is any perceived inaction or mishandling of the case by the authorities.
The organisations collectively called for justice for the survivor, accountability for the accused, and stronger measures to protect children and vulnerable individuals from abuse and exploitation.
Saturday, May 30, 2026