BJP Mahila Morcha urges NCW intervention, monitoring and fast-track trial in the Lengrijan minor abuse case
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DIMAPUR — The BJP Mahila Morcha (BJP-MM) Nagaland has sought the intervention of National Commission for Women (NCW) in the alleged sexual abuse case involving a minor girl at Lengirijan in Dimapur, urging the national body to take suo motu cognisance and constitute an inquiry committee.
In a representation submitted to NCW Chairperson on June 2, the organisation requested the Commission to closely oversee the progress of the case, seek periodic reports from the authorities and ensure that the victim receives comprehensive support and protection.
The memorandum relates to the alleged repeated sexual assault and prolonged abuse of a 14-year-old girl, a case that has triggered widespread public concern in Nagaland.
Describing the allegations as grave and disturbing, the BJP-MM stated that the case involved serious violations of the child's rights, dignity and bodily integrity and warranted urgent intervention by the Commission under its statutory powers.
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It also called for coordination between the NCW, the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) and the Nagaland State Commission for Women to ensure close monitoring of the investigation and prosecution.
The memorandum added that a second accused had been arrested in connection with the case and urged that the investigation examine the role of all alleged perpetrators and accomplices, as well as the full extent of the offences under investigation.
Seeking greater oversight, the BJP-MM requested that the NCW call for detailed action taken reports from the authorities concerned every 15 days, including updates on the status of the investigation, forensic examination of digital evidence, medical findings and compliance with timelines prescribed under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and other applicable laws.
It also called for the case to be tried in a designated POCSO Special Court on a fast-track basis, arguing that justice should be delivered without unnecessary delay while minimising further trauma to the child.
The memorandum stressed that the investigation and trial should be conducted in an impartial, professional and time-bound manner, without regard to the social, political, professional or organisational standing of any accused person.
It further sought strict protection of the victim's identity, privacy and dignity and called for comprehensive assistance to the child and her family, including legal aid, medical care, psychological counselling, educational support and compensation under applicable schemes.
The BJP-MM also urged the Commission to recommend adequate witness protection measures to safeguard the victim and her family from intimidation or pressure during the course of the investigation and trial.
Beyond the ongoing case, the organisation called for the formulation of guidelines governing informal guardianship arrangements involving minors studying away from home.
It argued that the case had exposed the need for stronger verification, monitoring and accountability mechanisms involving educational institutions, churches, tribal bodies, student organisations and civil society groups.