Nagaland NewsMeghalaya CM, CSOs condemn sexual assault; ENWO reiterates b...

Meghalaya CM, CSOs condemn sexual assault; ENWO reiterates ban on child domestic help

DIMAPUR: In the wake of the shocking sexual assault of a minor girl in Dimapur allegedly perpetrated by O. Watimeren Jamir, an unprecedented wave of condemnation has poured in from civil society organisations (CSOs), student unions, political parties, and women’s groups across Nagaland including Meghalaya chief minister, Conrad K. Sangma.
They demanded justice, accountability, and protection of children’s rights under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Conrad K. Sangma: Conrad K. Sangma: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has strongly condemned the alleged sexual abuse of a minor girl from the Chang community in Nagaland, describing crimes against children as “unacceptable and intolerable.”
In a statement, Sangma emphasized that such acts must be dealt with firmly under the law. He called for a swift and fair investigation under relevant provisions, including the POCSO Act, to ensure justice for the survivor.
Expressing sympathy for the victim and her family, Sangma urged society to stand united against violence and abuse of children and to work collectively toward creating a safer environment where every child can live free from fear and exploitation.
ENWO: Eastern Nagaland Women Organisation (ENWO) has strongly condemned the alleged sexual assault and repeated rape of a 14-year-old minor girl in Dimapur and reiterated its stand against sending children away as domestic helpers.
In a press release, ENWO expressed deep concern over the recent case involving the alleged sexual assault of a minor girl by accused O. Watimeren Jamir, and reiterated its unwavering opposition to all forms of violence and crimes against women and children, in line with a resolution adopted during its executive meeting on September 7, 2023.
The organisation said it expected the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to conduct a fair, impartial and thorough investigation without interference from any authority or individual. It asserted that the accused, who has been booked under Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, must be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law without fear, favour or special consideration.
ENWO also urged the government and all concerned authorities to ensure that justice was delivered and that the accused was not allowed to evade accountability under any circumstances.
Further, the organisation cautioned that it would closely monitor the progress of the investigation and the actions taken in the case to ensure that justice was served and due process upheld at every stage.
Meanwhile, ENWO reminded all Eastern Naga parents that under no circumstances should children be sent away to work as domestic helpers. It maintained that children should reside outside their homes only for educational purposes and in strict compliance with ENWO guidelines.
The organisation also cautioned homeowners and guardians against employing or accommodating any Eastern Naga child as a domestic helper. ENWO said it had observed a troubling pattern where children sent away ostensibly for schooling were instead engaged in domestic work and denied their right to education.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting the rights, welfare and dignity of women and children, ENWO urged parents, guardians and employers to strictly adhere to its guidelines and resolutions concerning child protection.
YLAD: Yimkhiung Liperü Arihako Dimapur (YLAD) described the incident as “barbaric and shameful,” calling it an assault on the innocence, security, and future of children. YLAD urged police and authorities to conduct an immediate, impartial, and time bound investigation, ensuring that the judicial process remains uninfluenced and transparent. It further appealed to women’s bodies, tribal organisations, youth groups, and citizens of Dimapur to unite against sexual crimes, pledging unwavering support to every step taken to protect children and uphold justice.
ANCSU: All Nagaland College Students’ Union (ANCSU) condemned the act as unacceptable and was in direct contradiction to the values and responsibilities the organization upholds. It appealed to law-enforcing agencies and all concerned authorities to conduct fair, transparent, and time-bound investigation and ensured that justice be delivered in accordance with the law. ANCSU expressed solidarity to the victim and family and urged that all necessary support and assistance be extended throughout the legal process.
BJP Mahila Morcha: BJP Mahila Morcha, Nagaland stated that the alleged accused, O. Watimeren Jamir, a former president of ANCSU, and former general secretary of NSF, and a practising lawyer, has allegedly “grossly betrayed his position of trust and responsibility” by subjecting the minor to repeated sexual abuse.
The party cautioned that any crime against women and children, especially a minor, was utterly unacceptable and commended the prompt and responsible actions taken by Child Helpline Dimapur, Women Police Station, Dimapur, Chang Union Dimapur (CUD), student organisations and all concerned citizens.
It demanded thorough, impartial, time bound, and fast track investigation and emphasised that the identity and dignity of the minor victim be strictly protected, provided all necessary legal, medical, psychological, and rehabilitative support.
It also appealed parents, guardians, educational institutions, Churches, tribal organisations, student bodies, and civil society to remain vigilant and strengthen mechanisms for the safety and protection of children, particularly those studying away from their families.
BJP Nagaland: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Nagaland has also strongly condemned the alleged sexual abuse and stated that at times when such incidents continue to raise serious concerns about safety and well-being of women and children, it was imperative that society stand united against all forms of abuse and exploitation, and called upon community leaders, civil society organisations, and citizens to support efforts aimed at protecting children and ensuring a safe environment for every child to grow and thrive. It also expressed sympathy and solidarity with the young survivor and her family during this difficult time.
The party further expressed steadfastness in its commitment to protection of women and children and reiterates its belief that no individual, regardless of status or position, should be above the law, and expressed hope that due process of law would prevail and that justice would be served.
DCS: Dimapur Sümi Council (DSC) has strongly condemned the prolonged sexual abuse and exploitation of a minor student by her guardian, describing the act as a “heinous violation of human rights and dignity.”
DSC expressed deep outrage and sorrow over the trauma inflicted upon the young girl. It commended the survivor’s bravery and declared full solidarity with her and her family during this difficult time.
The DSC demanded that the victim be provided comprehensive medical, psychological and educational support to aid her recovery. It further called upon law enforcement agencies to conduct an immediate and thorough investigation, ensuring that the perpetrator faces the full weight of the law and maximum penalties for crimes against a minor.
The Council stressed that such crimes must never be tolerated and urged authorities to deliver justice without delay.
NPF Women Wing: Naga People’s Front (NPF) Central Women Wing described the crime as a grave violation of human dignity, safety and fundamental rights of a child.
In a condemnation note, the Women Wing expressed solidarity with the victim and her family, assuring them of full support during this difficult time. It demanded strict action against the accused under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023 and POCSO Act 2012, along with a time‑bound police investigation.
The Wing further called for a fast‑track trial to ensure speedy justice and exemplary punishment for the perpetrator. It also urged the government to provide medical and psychological support to the victim as per guidelines.
Appealing to the district administration and police to take all necessary steps to prevent such crimes, the NPF Women Wing reiterated its commitment to work for the safety, dignity and empowerment of women.
CAKWO: Chakhro Angami Kuda Women Organisation (CAKWO) condemned the horrific act and the trauma caused upon the victim.
CAKWO stated that as mothers and members of the society, they were disturbed and concerned about safety and wellbeing of children, especially daughters. It expressed solidarity with the victim and family and called upon authorities to ensure befitting punishment to the culprit.
ASUD: Ao Students’ Union Dimapur (ASUD) has strongly condemned all forms of sexual violence, particularly crimes committed against children and minors, terming such acts as grave violations of human rights and personal dignity. In a condemnation note, ASUD president, Imnatemsu Pongen, and general secretary, Tongpangnechet Kichu, said every child has the fundamental right to safety and protection. The union extended solidarity with the victim and family, and appealed to the authorities to conduct a fair, impartial and expeditious investigation. ASUD further urged law enforcement and judiciary to ensure justice is delivered in accordance with the law, safeguarding the rights, privacy and well being of the victim. It also cautioned against prejudging the outcome of the investigation and appealed to the public to refrain from spreading unverified information or misinformation.
SSUD: Sangtam Students’ Union Dimapur (SSUD) has strongly condemned the “barbaric and inhuman act” noting that crimes against children were grave violations of human rights and dignity, leaving lasting psychological, emotional and physical trauma on victims.
SSUD president, Chongrokhum Sangtam and general secretary, Loly Sangtam expressed solidarity with the victim and her family during this difficult time and urged law enforcement agencies to conduct a fair, prompt and thorough investigation.
It demanded that the accused be denied bail and that strict legal action be taken under the POCSO Act without delay.
Further, SSUD called upon society to stand united against all forms of violence, exploitation and abuse of children, reaffirming its commitment to justice, accountability and the protection of students and children’s rights.
KSUD: Konyak Students’ Union Dimapur (KSUD) condemned the “barbaric act” and stated that such brutality against minor was not only inhumane and unforgivable but also a direct threat to safety and well-being of every child. KSUD expressed solidarity with the victim and family and prayed for recovery. It urged the concerned authorities to ensure that the victim receives the highest level of medical, psychological, and legal support.
KSUD also appealed all concerned authorities and members of public to respect and protect the identity, dignity, and rights of the minor victim throughout the legal process.
NPWF: National People’s Women Front (NPWF) has strongly condemned the heinous sexual assault committed against a minor girl and also the shameful incident of sexual abuse and life-threatening physical assault inflicted upon a Yimkhiung girl at Phesama, Kohima.
In a press release, NPWF stated that such barbaric and inhumane acts were a direct attack on dignity, safety, and fundamental rights of women and children, noting that such crimes have no place in today’s civilized society and must be met with the strongest possible response under the law.
NPWF expressed solidarity with the victims, their families, and respective communities during these difficult times, and also commended those who have come forward in support of victims. It further urged competent authorities to ensure swift, impartial, and thorough investigations into both cases and to bring the perpetrators to justice without delay.
NPYF: National People’s Youth Front (NPYF), Nagaland State, stated that such heinous and reprehensible act against a child was not only a grave violation of law but also an assault on the dignity, safety, and fundamental rights of every child.
The youth front called upon law enforcement agencies, judiciary, and all concerned authorities to ensure swift, impartial, and transparent investigation, followed by prompt prosecution under all relevant provisions of the law, including the POCSO Act and other applicable sections of the Indian Penal Code.
It further extended solidarity and full support to the victim and her family during this difficult period.
TYOD: Tenyimi Youth Organisation Dimapur (TYOD) has strongly condemned the alleged prolonged sexual exploitation of a minor girl in Dimapur, declaring that any individual capable of such acts deserves no leniency, safe harbour or mercy under the law.
TYOD expressed its firm opposition to any attempt at out of court settlements, customary compromises or political interference that could dilute the gravity of the crime. The organisation extended unyielding solidarity and unwavering support to the ENSUD, the Chang community, and most importantly to the victim and her traumatized family.
The Union appealed to the authorities for a fast track investigation, apprehension of all accomplices, stringent legal charges, and a zero bail commitment to ensure that justice is delivered swiftly and without compromise.
CTS: Changsao Thangjam Setshang (CTS) has appealed to the law enforcement authorities to conduct swift, transparent and thorough investigation under POCSO Act and other reliable laws to ensure the perpetrator is held fully accountable under the law.
It further expressed its solidarity with victim and the family recognizing the profound trauma and courage it took to navigate such experience.
STD: Sangtamlarü thsingmüjang Dimapur (STD) stated that monstrous crime of such magnitude against a child was a severe violation of human right and direct threat to safety of the children.
STD expressed solidarity with the victim and family and appealed law enforcement and judicial authorities to ensure justice be served without delay. It further demanded that the accused be denied bail under any circumstances and that the case be expedited through immediate legal proceedings to prevent unnecessary delays.
AWO: Angami Women Organisation (AWO) stated that crimes against children are among the gravest offences imaginable, as they shatter a child’s sense of safety, dignity, and trust.
AWO therefore urged investigating authorities to conduct a swift, thorough, and impartial investigation so that justice is neither delayed nor denied, and every effort is made to establish the truth, ensure due process, and hold those responsible fully accountable.
It further warned that any attempt to obstruct, influence, or interfere with the course of justice must be firmly resisted.
NPMC: Nagaland Pradesh Mahila Congress (NPMC) in a condemnation noted that the reprehensible act has shocked conscience of society and represents grave violation of trust and responsibility entrusted to a guardian.
NPMC expressed sympathy and solidarity with the young survivor and her family and Chang Civil Society Organizations during this difficult time. It noted that crimes against children were among the most heinous offenses and must be met with full force of law, and thereby urged concerned authorities to ensure swift, impartial, and thorough investigation and to deliver justice without delay.
NPMC also expressed concern over increasing instances of violence and abuse against women and children and called upon all sections of society, including community leaders, churches, educational institutions, civil society organizations, and families, to work collectively to create a safer environment where every child can live free from fear, exploitation, and abuse.
ENWO Dimapur Unit: Eastern Nagaland Women Organization (ENWO) Dimapur unit stated that the egregious act of violence has left the victim traumatized and considered the act as a serious violation of fundamental rights, human rights and dignity of the individual involved.
It further expressed solidarity with the victim and their family during this time of profound trauma, and urged law enforcement agencies to conduct swift, thorough and impartial investigation under POSCO Act and ensure stringent action against the perpetrator.
KMH: Khiamniungan Menyiu Hoikam (KMH) termed the act as inhuman and a grave violation of the rights, dignity, and safety of children and completely unacceptable in any society. KMH expressed concern and solidarity with the victim and the family and urged authorities concerned to ensure child’s privacy, safety, and swift legal action against the perpetrator in accordance with the law. KMH also urged all parents, schools, Churches, and civil society to strengthen child protection mechanism and to speak up against abuse.
PH (Apex Body): Phomla Hoichem (Apex body) in a condemnation note stated that such cruel and in-humane act was a direct attack on dignity, safety and future of children and has no place in any civilized society.
PH expressed solidarity and support to the victim and family during painful and difficult time, and appealed to the concerned law enforcement authorities to conduct fair, swift and transparent investigation and to take strict legal action against all those found involved in accordance with the law. It also urged all organization leaders and citizen to rise above personal, tribal or sectional interests collectively stand against crimes of sexual violence and exploitation, silence and indifference only encourage such acts while unity and accountability strengthen justice and public trust.
YWO: Yimkhiung Women Organisation (YWO) described the sexual abuse of a minor as inhuman, unacceptable and a grave violation of children’s rights, dignity and safety.
In a condemnation note, YWO stated that child sexual abuse inflicts deep emotional, psychological and physical trauma and has no place in a civilized society. It demanded immediate and strict legal action against the accused and justice for the victim.
YWO further urged society to unite against violence and abuse of children and to work collectively towards creating a safe environment where every child can live free from fear and exploitation.
KNSK: Konyak Nyupuh Sheko Khong (KNSK) stated that such “monstrous act” was a grave violation of human dignity, rights and safety of all children and that there was absolutely no place for such brutality and inhumanity in a civilized community. It expressed solidarity with the victim and family and expressed its unwavering support in this traumatic time. It also urged concern authority and law enforcement to leave no stone unturned in ensuring justice to the victim.
AST: Akehta Sangtamlarü Thsingmüjang (AST) expressed its profound shock and described the act as disturbing, asserting that this was not an isolated act, but a pattern of repeated, premeditated abuse perpetrated by not one individual alone, but allegedly by a network of associates acting in concert.
It lamented that the vulnerability of a child was systematically exploited.
AST expressed unwavering solidarity with the young survivor and her family and demanded before the relevant authorities, which included expansion of investigation, arrest of all accused, denial of bail, and maximum sentencing under POCSO.
SSU: Sangdak Students’ Union (SSU) termed the act a grave violation of human dignity and children’s rights and demanded accountability for the accused. It also urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation to ensure justice is delivered without delay. SSU conveyed solidarity with the victim and her family during this time of trauma, stressing that such crimes must not be tolerated in society.

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