Staff Reporter
DIMAPUR, JUN 5 (NPN): Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) under the banner of Naga Council Dimapur (NCD) have extended full support to the 11-point charter of demands submitted by Dimapur Eastern Naga Students’ Union (DENSU) in connection with the alleged sexual assault case involving a minor in Dimapur, while reaffirming their commitment to ensuring justice for the victim and maintaining public peace.
Addressing the media after a three-hour meeting at NCD office, NCD president GK Rengma said the CSOs have been actively coordinating with the police, district administration, youth bodies and women’s organisations since the incident came to light. He said the accused have been booked under Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and currently in police custody. Rengma informed that representatives of the CSOs visited the Women Police Station and held meetings with the officer-in-charge and assistant commissioner of police to review the progress of the investigation. He said the organisations were satisfied with the steps taken so far by the police and district administration.
He further said the CSOs also met officials of the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), which is presently acting as the legal guardian of the minor victim. According to him, the victim is receiving counselling, academic support and proper care under the supervision of the CWC.
Speaking on DENSU’s 11-point charter of demands submitted to the director general of police, Rengma said the CSOs fully support the resolution and have formally conveyed their stand to the authorities. He added that the organisations would continue to closely monitor the investigation and legal proceedings until justice is delivered.
On allegations regarding the involvement of a possible third accused, GK Rengma said the police are investigating the matter from all angles based on the victim’s legally recorded statement and expressed confidence that the truth would emerge through the official investigation process.
Meanwhile, the CSOs announced that the public protest rally earlier scheduled for June 11 has been cancelled following consultations with student bodies and youth organisations. The decision, they said, was taken in the interest of maintaining law and order in Dimapur.
Naga Women Hoho Dimapur president Y. Imlinungla strongly condemned the alleged sexual assault on the minor and expressed concern over the rising incidents of violence against women and children.
She said the organisation has been in continuous contact with the police, district administration, Childline and the CWC to ensure the safety and well-being of the victim.
Imlinungla also said the victim’s studies and future rehabilitation are being taken care of, adding that the CWC has assured support for her education and vocational training until she is emotionally and mentally prepared to live independently.
Dimapur Urban Council Chairmen Federation president Zasivikho Zakiesato described the incident as a “dark period” for society and reiterated that the CSOs would not tolerate such crimes. He appealed to the public not to stigmatise any particular community, stating that the accused should be treated as an individual offender and not as a representative of any tribe or group.
Zasivikho further urged the police to expedite the investigation and submit the charge sheet at the earliest. He also called upon citizens, especially the youth, to remain calm and allow the legal process to proceed without disruption.
Similarly, Gaonbura Union Dimapur Sadar president W. Kholie Kapfo appealed to the public not to take the law into their own hands and to maintain peace while the authorities complete the investigation.
Meanwhile, the CSOs appealed to all not to circulate the victim’s identity or photographs on social media, stressing that protecting her dignity and future remains a top priority.