Zeliang bodies condemn rape of elderly woman

DIMAPUR: Zeliang Youth Organisation Chümoukedima (ZYOC), Zeliang Youth Organisation Dimapur (ZYOD), and Zeliang Women Organisation (ZWO) have vehemently condemned the alleged sexual assault and rape of an elderly woman in Kiphire, reportedly committed by Nagaland Police personnel, Heluikie Nsanglung.
ZYOC: In a press release, ZYOC expressed deep distress and outrage over the incident, terming it a heinous act against a vulnerable and aged woman. The organisation described the crime as a violation of human dignity and a direct affront to the moral conscience of society. It asserted that there should be no clemency for such depravity and urged the government and law enforcing authorities to expedite investigation and ensure stringent punishment. Extending solidarity to the victim and her family, ZYOC reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding human dignity and rights, standing firmly against exploitation, abuse and violence targeting the vulnerable.
ZYOD: ZYOD has also issued a strong condemnation, describing the crime as one of the most heinous violations of human dignity imaginable. It stated that the victim, an elderly mother deserving respect and protection, was instead subjected to an act that has shaken the conscience of society. The organisation stressed that such crimes are not merely offences against individuals but assaults upon humanity itself and affronts to the moral fabric of society. The body asserted that sexual violence demands the strongest possible response under the law, leaving no room for compromise or justification. It noted its agreement with the condemnation issued by Akehta Sangtamlarü Tsingmüjang and expressed solidarity with the Sangtam community, while extending deepest support to the victim and her family.
ZYOD further clarified that the values and identity of the Zeliang people cannot be judged by the alleged actions of a single individual, stressing that the community has always upheld principles of dignity, respect for women, justice and communal harmony. It rejected any attempt to portray the Zeliang people otherwise.
Highlighting the gravity of the allegations, ZYOD pointed out that the accused was a member of the police force, entrusted with the responsibility of protecting citizens and maintaining public confidence in the rule of law. It urged the State Government to invoke all relevant provisions of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and Section 63 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and to ensure that investigation was conducted without fear, favour or interference. The organisation demanded immediate suspension of the accused pending judicial proceedings and emphasised the need for comprehensive victim support, including medical care, psychological counselling, legal assistance and protection throughout the investigation and trial.
ZWO: ZWO, Peren, expressed profound shock and outrage, describing the act as barbaric, inhumane and an unpardonable violation of women’s safety and dignity. It noted that the accused, an Armed Branch Constable serving in Nagaland Police (Kiphire DEF), had betrayed the constitutional duty of law enforcers to protect life and honour, instead turning into a predator and bringing shame to the uniform.
As an organisation representing women’s voices, ZWO declared that no rank, position or uniform should shield perpetrators from accountability. It stressed that the offence was exceptionally grave given the victim’s advanced age and extreme vulnerability, and the irreversible trauma inflicted upon her and her family.
ZWO placed a charter of demands before authorities, calling for immediate release of the accused’s picture to prevent masking of his identity, swift suspension and dismissal from service, and denial of bail at all stages of proceedings. It demanded constitution of an impartial Special Investigation Team (SIT) to conduct a time bound probe, followed by fast track court proceedings to ensure maximum punishment under law. The organisation also urged the State Government to provide comprehensive medical care, psychological counselling, professional legal aid and full financial compensation under victim relief schemes.
Declaring its firm stand on absolute justice, ZWO warned that any attempt to dilute or delay justice would be fiercely resisted. It reaffirmed that crimes against women, particularly elderly and vulnerable women, have no place in a civilized society and must be met with swift, transparent and decisive justice.