DIMAPUR — The Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA) and the Jotsoma Women Organisation (JWO) have condemned the physical abuse of a minor child allegedly by Dr. Vibino Sabina from Khonoma village.
In a press release, NMA expressed pain that the society continues to witness such cruel and unimaginable acts, especially when perpetrated by educated people.
“This calls for every right thinking individuals and responsible leaders from all sections to educate and advocate on rights and safety of every citizen, especially vulnerable children,” the association said.
It extended appreciation to the principal and staff of Government Higher Secondary School, Jotsoma, for taking the role as a first responder and assisting in rescuing the child through the Child Welfare Committee.
“Time and again we must remind ourselves, we are the guardian of our children and we are duty bound to protect their interest at large.
“Child HelpLine 1098 continues to rescue, protect and educate the mass on the safety and rights of children and we must take a call where the dignity of children is at all times, protected,” it stated.
The NMA urged the competent concerned authority to deliver justice and extend all help towards healing of the traumatised child.
In a separate press statement, the Jotsoma Women Organisation asserted that violence against children was violative of the right to life with dignity.
“Abusing a child not only endangers the health and welfare of children but the victim suffers lifelong emotional and mental trauma. It is imperative that our society be more vocal against reprehensible actions against children lest they suffer from our silence,” the JWO said.
Stressing on the need for both parents and teachers to educate children of their well being and basic rights, the organization went on to state that the incident is “reflective of a shameful and extremely disturbing trend in the Naga society involving the intelligentsia where more love, kindness and compassion is expected.”
The JWO further appealed to the competent authority to leave no stone unturned in the investigation process to deliver justice.