Several Dimapur-based Chang civil society organisations and student bodies have strongly condemned the alleged sexual assault and physical abuse of a minor girl and demanded immediate justice, asserting that the case should not be compromised under any circumstances.
Addressing a press conference at the residence of Chang Union Dimapur (CUD) treasurer on Thursday, leaders of Chang Union Dimapur (CUD), Changsao Thangjam Dimapur (CTD) and Chang Students’ Union Dimapur (CSUD) said they would continue to pursue justice for the victim and ensure that the matter was taken to its legal conclusion.
CUD president Lanuchuba Chang said the organisations came to know about the incident on May 24 through reliable sources. Following the information, representatives rushed to the Women Police Station in Dimapur but found that the victim had already been taken under the care of the Child Helpline and the Child Welfare Committee (CWC).
He said that since it was a Sunday, officials could not be located at their offices. An emergency meeting was later held with CWC officials on May 25, during which the organisations were informed that the victim was physically stable but undergoing severe psychological trauma and counselling.
Lanuchuba said the organisations had requested permission to meet the victim but were advised not to do so considering her emotional and mental condition. He added that an FIR had subsequently been lodged at the Women Police Station and appealed to all sections of society to support the pursuit of justice.
He maintained that the matter involved the alleged sexual abuse of a minor and should not be resolved through any form of compromise, regardless of family or external pressure. He stressed that the arrest of the accused was necessary to ensure justice and strengthen public confidence in the legal process.
Speaking on behalf of mothers in the community, CTD vice president Bendangmenla Chang said the incident had deeply hurt and disturbed many families. She said parents often place immense trust in guardians when sending children away from home for education and better opportunities.
Describing the alleged incident as a betrayal of that trust, she said such crimes should not happen to any woman or child and called for stronger awareness on women’s safety, child protection and community responsibility.
CSUD vice president I. Chejing Chang also strongly condemned the alleged incident, describing it as a serious case of sexual exploitation and physical assault involving a minor girl. He appealed to all sections of Naga society to stand together against such crimes and ensure that justice was not influenced by tribal, social or organisational affiliations.
Chejing said the accused, identified as Wati Imchen and reportedly a resident of Lengrijan, had previously been associated with the legal fraternity and student organisations. However, he expressed confidence in the judiciary and the investigating agencies to handle the case fairly and independently.
He also acknowledged the support extended by the Dimapur Eastern Naga Students’ Union, Dimapur Naga Students’ Union, Eastern Naga Students’ Federation and Chang Wedoshi Setshang.
Appealing to media organisations, he urged journalists and the public to protect the identity of the victim and avoid speculation or victim-blaming. He said CSUD stood firmly with the victim and her family and would continue monitoring the case. He added that the union was prepared to take further democratic steps if justice was delayed.
Responding to questions from reporters, CUD joint secretary Stephen Chang said the accused had been granted anticipatory bail. He informed that the organisations had already submitted a representation to the competent authority seeking cancellation of the bail.
Stephen urged media houses and citizens to handle the matter sensitively and avoid revealing any information that could expose the victim’s identity or affect her future. Calling for unity across communities, he said the issue transcended tribal boundaries and concerned the safety and dignity of every child.
“This is not just about one community. Such incidents can happen to anyone. Justice for this minor will be a collective victory,” he said.
CSUD executive secretary Yempokumba Chang informed that the victim had reportedly been staying with the guardian since around 2015 for educational purposes while also assisting with household work.
Meanwhile, more organisations have come forward to condemn the alleged incident and demand strict legal action against the accused.
In a statement, Naga Women Hoho Dimapur (NWHD) expressed deep concern and anguish over the reported case. The organisation said violence, abuse and exploitation of children were unacceptable and must be dealt with utmost seriousness.
The women’s body called for a fair, prompt and thorough investigation and demanded that the accused be booked under relevant provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and other applicable laws. It also sought strict punishment if the allegations are established through due legal process.
NWHD expressed solidarity with the victim and her family and prayed for her physical, emotional and psychological recovery. The organisation also urged communities, institutions and leaders to strengthen awareness and protective measures to safeguard children from abuse and exploitation.
The Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU) also condemned the alleged assault and described it as a serious violation of human dignity and children’s rights. The union expressed solidarity with the victim and her family and demanded immediate justice.
DNSU further criticised the grant of anticipatory bail to the accused and called for its cancellation, arguing that allowing the accused to remain free during such a serious investigation could affect public confidence in the legal process and hinder efforts to ensure accountability.
The organisations collectively appealed to law enforcement agencies, community leaders and citizens to stand united in support of the victim and ensure that justice is delivered through a fair and transparent legal process.
