DIMAPUR, JUL 2 (NPN): Child Welfare Committee (CWC) Phek has appealed to the public, media houses, civil society organisations and social media users to refrain from disclosing any information that could reveal the identity of a child involved in a recent sexual abuse case.
In a public appeal, CWC Phek expressed deep concern over the circulation of information on social media and other public platforms. The committee urged everyone not to publish or mention, directly or indirectly, the name of the survivor or the accused, their village, school, family details, or any other information that could lead to the child’s identification.
The committee pointed out that the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, along with other applicable laws, strictly prohibits disclosure of the identity of child victims of sexual offences. CWC cautioned that even indirect references, including the name of a village, educational institution or other identifying details, could compromise the child’s privacy, dignity and safety.
Reiterating that the best interests of the child must remain the primary consideration in every case, the CWC Phek urged the public to show solidarity in a manner that protects rather than endangers the child’s welfare.
It also appealed to citizens to refrain from publishing or sharing the names of the victim or the accused, avoid mentioning any identifying particulars, and not forward photographs, videos or documents related to the case. The committee also called for responsible reporting and urged the public to allow the investigation and judicial process to proceed without prejudice.
Appreciating the concern shown by the public in seeking justice for the child, CWC requested everyone to exercise restraint and act in accordance with the law to safeguard the child’s rights, dignity and future.
