Dimapur Sümi Council (DSC), Joint Council Forum (JCF) and Western Sumi Students’ Union (WSSU) and Indian Academy of Paediatrics (IAP) have in separate statements strongly condemned the alleged sexual assault on a minor girl by one Ali Mortuja, a trader, at New Market Dimapur.
DSC through its media cell expressed deep shock over the incident and termed it as a “ reprehensible act” that was an affront to the safety, dignity and values of the society. The council contended that “such detestable molestation” on Naga females by “migrants of doubtful origin” was not new and must be dealt with a heavy hand if proven guilty.
DSC said that crimes of such nature were intolerable and must be met with the strictest application of the law. It demanded immediate cancellation of the accused’s trade licence. Further, the DSC urged the law enforcement agencies to expedite the investigation and ensure that justice was served through due legal process. It also called for vigilance and accountability in safeguarding the rights and well-being of local citizens, particularly women and children.
DSC affirmed solidarity with the victim and her family and demanded that the legal system respond swiftly, fairly and decisively.
DSC also urged all other civil society organisations, women and student bodies to stand unitedly against such appalling acts.
JCF: Joint Council Forum (JCF) comprising of NST Colony, Churches Colony and Middle Point (Dimapur), through its convenor Pikato Chishi and secretary Omega G. Naga expressed grave concern and outrage over the alleged sexual assault on a minor Naga girl.
JCF stated that the “reprehensible act” by the accused, constituted a grave offence under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and violation of both the child’s fundamental rights and the community’s sense of safety.
The forum urged the police and responsible authorities to carry out a thorough, impartial, and time-bound investigation and to ensure that the accused was prosecuted as per the full extent of the law.
JCF opined that the accused could have exhibited such behavioural patterns in the past, which raised serious safety concerns, particularly for women in the community. JCF also stated that the growing presence of individuals with unverified backgrounds in Dimapur posed a risk that must be addressed proactively.
In this regard, JCF has urged the administration to strengthen verification processes and uphold public safety through lawful means.
Meanwhile, JCF also affirmed solidarity with the victim and her family. It expressed hope that justice would be delivered transparently and without delay.
WSSU: Strongly condemned the sexual assault on a minor Naga girl by one Ali Mortuja and termed it as a “monstrous act” committed against a defenceless child that was not only criminal but an assault on the conscience of the society.
WSSU through its media cell maintained that “such despicable crimes” had no place in any civilised land. WSSU said the atrocity that occurred in a public and densely populated area raised serious concerns about public safety, especially for the children.
The union urged the law enforcement authorities to initiate immediate, transparent, and “uncompromising” legal action. WSSU also demanded a fast-track trial and exemplary punishment.
WSSU also extends sympathy and unwavering support to the victim and her family.
Meanwhile, WSSU has urged the district administration and police to conduct a thorough review and verification of individuals and businesses operating in commercial zones such as New Market.
The union maintained that those with unverified backgrounds must be scrutinised, adding that measures be taken to prevent “such dangerous individuals from infiltrating peaceful communities.”
IAP: Indian Academy of Paediatrics (IAP), Nagaland, has expressed serious concern over the disturbing rise in incidents of child sexual abuse in the state and has urged authorities to take urgent and stringent action.
Citing data from the Nagaland State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, president IAP Nagaland Dr. Akumtoshi said 23 cases were registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act in 2023 alone, of which 18 involved perpetrators known to the victims.
Dr. Akumtoshi, who is also a central executive board member of IAP, said the trend was deeply disturbing and called for stronger enforcement of existing laws, prompt investigation, and strict punishment of offenders.
He informed that IAP, being a body that advocates for the well-being and safety of children and urged authorities to take stringent action on the perpetrators and initiate appropriate preventive steps.
IAP also appealed to communities to remain vigilant and ensure child safety. It further emphasized the need for schools to introduce age-appropriate sex education and awareness programmes.
Dr. Akumtoshi also highlighted the importance of creating support groups for survivors and their families, stating that emotional and psychological care was vital to the healing process.