Angami Women Organisation (AWO) has expressed outrage and strongly condemned “repeated and inexcusable actions” of IAS officer, Reny Wilfred, who it said has “shown a disturbing pattern” of abusing his position of power to sexually abuse women and children.
In a press release, AWO president Neithono R. Sothu and general secretary Atono Kense demanded “immediate” arrest of Reny Wilfred accused of grave crimes, without delay and to treat him as any other citizen regardless of his position, title or connections
AWO described it as “both alarming and shocking” that it was not the first time such accusations have surfaced against Reny Wilfred.
AWO pointed out that even during his tenure as deputy commissioner (DC) Noklak, Reny Wilfred was accused of molesting two minor girls, a case, which it maintained, “tragically, remains unresolved to this day.”
AWO said Wilfred was yet again accused of sexually harassing women employees under his authority in the workplace, further compounding the trauma and injustice already inflicted in various cases.
As a figure of authority, AWO said it was expected that Reny Wilfred, should have been safeguarding vulnerable women employees with anti-discrimination and anti-harassment measures.
However, AWO regretted that the pattern of repeatedly degrading and humiliating offenses highlighted not only his blatant disregard for the law, but also the grave failure of the system to hold him accountable for his crimes time and again.
AWO said it was vital now that women stood in solidarity with each other and fight against such atrocities so as to uphold the dignity, safety and rights of women and children. “We cannot and will not stay silent while such atrocities are allowed to continue,” AWO vowed.
The women body also expressed shock that despite such serious allegations, Wilfred had not been brought to justice.
AWO demanded that a full, impartial investigation be conducted into all allegations against Reny WIlfred. It also urged the judiciary to fast-track the proceedings, ensuring justice was delivered under relevant laws.
Meanwhile, AWO has called upon civil society organisations, women organisations, and human rights defenders to come forward in this fight for justice.