Nagaland women organisations demand swift justice in IDAN harassment case, criticising delays and opposing reinstatement of accused official
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DIMAPUR — Several women organisations in Nagaland have expressed concern over the lack of progress in the alleged sexual harassment case at the Investment Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), stating that justice remains distant for the victims even after more than a year.
In a joint press statement issued on Monday, the organisations said they were “deeply pained and disturbed” by the delay in the case, stressing that the allegations are serious and cannot be brushed aside as they strike at the dignity, safety and trust within institutions.
“It is appalling and disturbing that despite serious allegations against the accused, Reny Wilfred, justice seems to be far for the victims, which emboldens perpetrators across our society who continues to harm others without fear of consequences,” the statement said.
The organisations said that although a chargesheet has reportedly been filed, there has been little visible movement in the case since then. “Such delays only add to the trauma of the survivors and erode public confidence in the justice system. In cases like these, justice delayed risks becoming justice denied,” it stated.
Calling for urgent action, the organisations said that at a time when survivors are coming forward, institutions must respond with sincerity, urgency and accountability, and cautioned that any attempt to dilute or delay such matters sends a damaging message.
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Referring to the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, the groups said it is their “collective desire” that the trial be taken up immediately on a day-to-day basis, with adjournments limited to exceptional cases.
They further stated that provisions under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 are clear on offences of this nature, and that the law must be allowed to take its full course in a fair, transparent and impartial manner, free from external pressure, influence or vested inertests.
In this regard, the organisations reiterated that the accused, IAS officer Reny Wilfred, should not be reinstated or allowed to resume any official position until the trial is fully concluded, stating that such a move would undermine the integrity of the process and could affect the course of justice.
“We demand the judiciary for swift delivery of justice, one that is transparent, impartial and time-bound. There must be no room for any interference or delay and that justice is delivered under relevant laws to ensure that our justice system must never be compromised,” the statement said.
The organisations also said they would continue to pursue the matter until justice is delivered, while appealing to the concerned institutions to act with urgency and responsibility, noting that the issue goes beyond a single case and concerns the rule of law.
The statement was issued by the Angami Women Organisation; Watsu Telen Kohima, Chakhesang Mothers Association; Pochury Women Organisation Kohima; Rengma Mothers Association Kohima Unit; Kohima Chang Sao Thangjem; Khiamniungam Menyiu Hoikam; Kohima; Kohima Lotha Eloe Ekhung; Kohima Sumi Totimi Hoho; Tikhir Women Union Kohima; Phomla Hoichem Kohima Unit; Akehta Sangtamlarü Thsingmüjang; and Yimkhuing Women Organisation.