Several civil society organisations (CSOs) under the banner of the Naga Council Dimapur (NCD) have extended their full support to the 11-point charter of demands submitted by the Dimapur Eastern Naga Students’ Union (DENSU) in connection with the alleged sexual assault of a minor in Dimapur. The organisations have also reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring justice for the victim while maintaining peace and public order in the district. The decision was announced following a three-hour meeting held at the NCD office on Friday, where representatives of various civil society groups reviewed the developments related to the case and discussed further steps. Addressing the media after the meeting, NCD president GK Rengma said the CSOs have been actively engaging with the police, district administration, youth organisations and women’s groups since the incident came to light. He said the accused persons have been booked under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and are currently in police custody. Rengma said representatives of the organisations visited the Women Police Station and held discussions with the officer-in-charge and the assistant commissioner of police to assess the progress of the investigation. According to him, the CSOs are satisfied with the steps taken so far by the police and district administration in handling the case.
The organisations also met officials of the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), which is currently acting as the legal guardian of the minor victim. Rengma said the victim is receiving counselling, educational assistance and other necessary support under the supervision of the committee. Speaking on the 11-point charter of demands submitted by DENSU to the Director General of Police, Rengma said the CSOs fully endorse the demands and have formally communicated their position to the concerned authorities. “We will continue to closely monitor the investigation and legal proceedings until justice is delivered,” he said. Responding to allegations regarding the possible involvement of a third accused person, Rengma said the police are investigating all aspects of the case based on the victim’s legally recorded statement. He expressed confidence that the truth would emerge through the official investigation process. In a significant development, the CSOs announced the cancellation of a public protest rally that had been scheduled for June 11. The decision was taken after consultations with student organisations and youth bodies. According to the organisations, the rally was called off in the interest of maintaining peace and law and order in Dimapur. Naga Women Hoho Dimapur president Y. Imlinungla strongly condemned the alleged assault and expressed concern over increasing incidents of violence against women and children. She said the organisation has remained in regular contact with the police, district administration, Childline and the Child Welfare Committee to ensure the safety and well-being of the victim.
Imlinungla stated that arrangements have been made to support the victim’s education and future rehabilitation. She added that the Child Welfare Committee has assured continued assistance, including educational support and vocational training, until the victim is emotionally and mentally prepared to lead an independent life. Dimapur Urban Council Chairmen Federation president Zasivikho Zakiesato described the incident as a deeply disturbing episode and said society must stand united against such crimes. He stressed that the accused should be treated as an individual offender and not be linked to any particular tribe, community or group. Zakiesato also urged the police to complete the investigation at the earliest and submit the charge sheet without unnecessary delay. He appealed to citizens, particularly young people, to remain calm and allow the legal process to take its course.
Gaonbura Union Dimapur Sadar president W. Kholie Kapfo echoed similar views and urged the public not to take the law into their own hands while the investigation is underway. He appealed for peace and cooperation with the authorities. The CSOs further appealed to the public to refrain from sharing the victim’s identity, photographs or any personal information on social media. They stressed that protecting the dignity, privacy and future of the minor victim remains a top priority and called on citizens to act responsibly while discussing the case online. The organisations said they would continue to work with the authorities and relevant agencies to ensure that the victim receives justice and all necessary support while the investigation proceeds.
