DENSU says the probe into the Dimapur minor rape case is not over with three arrests and renews its demand for a state-level Special Investigation Team.
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DIMAPUR — The Dimapur Eastern Nagaland Students' Union (DENSU) on Tuesday asserted that the arrest of three accused persons in the minor rape case should not be treated as the conclusion of the investigation, while renewing its demand for a state-level Special Investigation Team (SIT) directly monitored by the Director General of Police (DGP).
Addressing media persons following a peaceful awareness campaign at Town Hall, Dimapur, DENSU General Secretary Sheren Shiu said the case was far from over and that all those involved must be brought before the law.
“The war is not over, it has only begun. The truth is gradually unfolding, and every individual involved in this crime must be investigated and brought before the law,” she said.
Responding to questions on the arrest of a third accused person, DENSU President Thongule Sangtam maintained that the union had consistently held the position that three individuals were involved in the crime.
“From our very first statement, we maintained that there were three culprits and that all three must be arrested. Despite various claims and doubts, we stood firm on this position, and now it has been proven,” he said.
DENSU Vice President I Chejing Chang alleged that there had been attempts to portray the case as involving only two accused persons.
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He further asserted that the victim’s face and identity had been exposed and called for action against those responsible for recording, circulating or disclosing such information.
Shiu also called for a thorough investigation into the alleged circulation of videos and images related to the victim, pointing out that disclosure of a child's identity is punishable under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
“Technology today makes it possible to trace who recorded the video, who circulated it and who disclosed the identity of the victim. Those responsible must also be brought to justice,” she said.
On the alleged involvement of a Gaon Bura in the case, Sangtam expressed concern, stating that community leaders are expected to protect and guide residents and that any involvement in crimes of such nature would raise serious concerns about public safety.
The union also reiterated its demand for the constitution of a state-level SIT directly monitored by the DGP.
Sangtam said DENSU appreciated the formation of an SIT but maintained that the investigation should not be confined to the district level.
“Our demand remains clear that the investigation should not be confined to the district level. It must be monitored at the state level under the direct supervision of the DGP,” he said, adding that a memorandum outlining the union’s demands had already been submitted to the DGP’s office.
Shiu further revealed that several women claiming to be survivors of sexual violence had contacted the organisation since it began raising the issue.
According to her, some of them said DENSU’s efforts had encouraged them to speak out.
She said the campaign was not only about one victim but also about survivors who had suffered in silence.
Addressing concerns over children being brought to urban areas under the pretext of education and allegedly being subjected to exploitation, Sangtam said the organisation had already initiated efforts to address the issue.
He said DENSU had advised organisations and apex bodies not to send children without proper arrangements and that children should be placed under the care of trusted relatives or guardians whenever necessary. He added that the union would also conduct physical verifications when required.
Speaking on the awareness campaign, Sangtam said the programme was organised in collaboration with various organisations to demonstrate solidarity with the victim and other survivors of similar crimes.
He said the campaign was intended to send a message that the union stood with the victim and with others who may be suffering in silence and unable to come forward.
DENSU Speaker Yongyo said all documents relating to the alleged involvement of the accused person’s sister had been submitted to the appropriate authorities and that it was now the responsibility of the police to investigate and take necessary action.
Sangtam also warned that if the union’s demands, particularly regarding a state-level SIT and other issues raised in its memorandum, were not addressed, DENSU would continue its agitation until justice was delivered.