DENSU reveals fresh allegations in Dimapur minor abuse case and demands speedy investigation under the POCSO Act
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DIMAPUR — Disturbing details emerged on Saturday in the alleged sexual abuse case involving a minor girl at Lengrijan in Dimapur, with the Dimapur Eastern Naga Students' Union (DENSU) claiming that the victim was subjected to repeated abuse over an extended period and was allegedly threatened into silence while living under the care of her guardians.
Addressing a press conference at Hotel Grand Tizu, DENSU president Thongule Sangtam alleged that the abuse began last year after the victim was brought to Dimapur for her education and placed under the care of the accused—O Watimeren Jamir—and his family.
According to Sangtam, the victim's statement indicated that the accused would allegedly wake her late at night on various pretexts before subjecting her to abuse. He claimed that what initially began as molestation eventually escalated into repeated sexual assault.
The DENSU leaders further alleged that information available to the organisation suggested evidence of repeated sexual penetration and that the abuse had continued over a prolonged period.
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The student body also claimed that another individual, described as a friend of the accused, was allegedly involved in acts of molestation, harassment and intimidation.
Sangtam alleged that the minor had stated she was threatened and lived under constant fear, preventing her from reporting the matter to her parents or others.
The organisation shared that concerns were first raised after teachers and counsellors at the victim's school noticed a decline in her academic performance and changes in her behaviour.
According to DENSU, school authorities and members of the school's child protection committee subsequently counselled the student, following which the alleged abuse came to light.
The matter was then reported to the Child Helpline, which intervened and placed the child under the care of the Child Welfare Committee while informing her parents and law enforcement agencies, the student body said.
Sangtam alleged that although information regarding the case surfaced on May 23, there had been delays in taking action, allowing the accused time to seek anticipatory bail.
However, he claimed that sustained pressure from community organisations, student bodies and civil society groups ultimately led to the cancellation of the anticipatory bail and the accused being taken into custody.
Demanding a thorough and time-bound investigation, the DENSU called for strict application of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and other relevant legal provisions.
The organisation also urged investigators to examine allegations involving the second individual reportedly named by the victim and to ensure that all persons found involved are brought to justice.
Expressing concern over the victim's wellbeing, the DENSU appealed to law enforcement agencies, child protection authorities and welfare institutions to ensure her safety and provide adequate psychological support.
Sangtam warned that the student body would continue monitoring the case closely and would not hesitate to launch democratic protests if there were any procedural lapses or attempts to derail the investigation.
The DENSU also called on civil society organisations and the public to support the victim and condemn all forms of violence against children.
Speaking at the press conference, DENSU general secretary Sherenshiu said that the case had deeply disturbed members of the organisation and stressed that the issue was not confined to any one tribe or community.
"This is a child who came seeking education and a better future. What she has allegedly endured should concern every Naga," she said, calling for collective efforts to ensure justice and prevent similar incidents in the future.
Responding to questions on reports of a possible compromise between the accused and the victim's family, Sangtam said that the DENSU had no information suggesting such an arrangement and maintained that the victim and her family were currently under protection.
He also said that the organisation plans to strengthen monitoring mechanisms for students from Eastern Nagaland residing with guardians in Dimapur, including periodic verification exercises aimed at safeguarding their welfare.
DENSU speaker Yongyo appealed to the public to promptly report any suspected cases of abuse, stating that community participation was essential in protecting vulnerable children and ensuring timely intervention.