Jangpetkong Kaketshir Telungjem Mungdang condemns alleged rape in Mokokchung

DIMAPUR — The Jangpetkong Kaketshir Telungjem Mungdang (JKTM) has condemned the alleged rape of a student in Mokokchung town on September 30. The organisation described the act, allegedly committed by 27-year-old Sumon Subba, as a heinous crime and an affront to community values and morals, demanding the severest condemnation.

In a statement, JKTM said there is absolutely no justification for such an act and expressed full solidarity with the survivor. It urged the authorities to act swiftly and decisively to ensure the perpetrator is brought to justice without delay.

The organisation stressed that survivors of sexual violence must be provided with compassion, protection, and access to necessary legal and psychological support services.

JKTM stated that rape is not only a personal trauma but a societal failure when silence or inaction perpetuates rape culture. It called upon the administration, law enforcement agencies, community leaders, and all citizens to join in breaking the culture of silence and ensuring such crimes are met with zero tolerance.

The organisation affirmed it would not remain a silent spectator to injustice and would take necessary steps if the authorities fail to act decisively. It reiterated its commitment to advocating for justice, supporting survivors, and striving for a society where safety and dignity are upheld for all.

Expressing concern over the public discourse following the incident, JKTM noted that discussions had drifted towards irrelevant details about the survivor’s life and prior association with the alleged perpetrator. It condemned such victim-blaming as irrelevant and damaging, emphasising that such narratives shift accountability from the perpetrator to the survivor.

“To be unequivocally clear: The responsibility for sexual assault lies solely with the perpetrator. The concept of consent is fundamental and non-negotiable. A prior friendship, a conversation, or any other circumstance does not constitute consent. Consent must be explicit, ongoing, and voluntary. Its absence means “no”. Any narrative that suggests otherwise is a betrayal of our community values and a deterrent to future survivors coming forward,” it read.

JKTM also expressed concern over the use of various media platforms by individuals focusing on the survivor’s personal history rather than the criminal act. It warned that such actions shape public perception in ways that re-traumatise survivors and diminish perpetrator accountability. It urged the public to focus on the crime, the legal processes, and the broader issue of sexual violence rather than peripheral details.

Appealing to the media, JKTM reminded journalists of their responsibility as the fourth pillar of democracy and custodians of truth, urging them to stand as allies in advocating for justice and to ensure that public attention remains on the core issue.

Concluding its statement, JKTM called this moment a critical juncture for the community and urged everyone to stand together in solidarity with the survivor, upholding a culture where safety, respect, and unequivocal consent are non-negotiable standards.