The Konyak Students’ Union, Kohima (KSUK) has strongly condemned what it described as a “heinous act” of physical abuse committed against a 9-year-old boy from the Konyak community by a government employee.
In a statement issued Tuesday, the Union said it is “deeply appalled and outraged by the heinous act committed by Mr Wapang L Imsong, S/o Shri. Limawati Imsong,” who is currently serving as LDA-cum-Computer Operator with the 10 IR Battalion, Zadima, and attached to the Police Engineering Project (PEP), PHQ.
According to the Union, the accused “has physically abused a minor male child, aged 9, belonging to Konyak Community.” Calling it a “serious violation of child rights,” the KSUK stated that the act is punishable under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, and is “liable to be prosecuted under Section 75 of the BNS.” It further added that the assault violates the “Right to Live, Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.”
Expressing shock and concern, the KSUK stated that it is “completely shocked by the inhuman behaviour exhibited by Mr. Wapang L Imsong towards a minor, who is in an age when he needs more love, protection and care from parents and guardians.” The Union added that “the pathetic condition of the child speaks volume of how brutal and unacceptable such act is.”
Highlighting the broader implications, the Union emphasized that “children at this tender age need nurturing and support and deserve a safe and secure environment for their proper upbringing and wellbeing.” It asserted that “such a mentality holds no place in this civilised society and must be dealt with strictly under the law of the Land without any prejudice or partiality.”
Calling for collective moral responsibility, the Union urged “every right-thinking citizen to condemn such inhuman act and take appropriate steps to rescue such children in need.”
KSUK also demanded that “the competent authorities take strictest and appropriate legal action against Mr. Wapang L Imsong and ensure that justice is delivered to the victim without delay.” The statement added: “The Union shall not rest until justice is served.”
Advisor Tongpang Ozukum suggests adopting resolution to curb abuse
Expressing regret over the recurrence of such incidents, Advisor for Water Resources Tongpang Ozukum proposed the adoption of a community-wide resolution to address and prevent such cases. He emphasized the importance of dialogue and consensus-building through the Ao Senden, frontal organizations, and village councils to formulate a resolution deemed relevant to combating such abuses.
“While this resolution may not prevent every incident, it can at least serve as a binding framework to help curb and deter such occurrences,” he stated.