The recent circulation of a disturbing video showing a girl being physically and verbally assaulted by a group of other girls in Chümoukedima has triggered widespread condemnation and institutional response, with the school confirming the involvement of one student, child rights authorities issuing warnings, and student unions calling for swift justice.
The incident, which took place on May 31 at Ward-9, Chümoukedima, quickly gained traction on social media over the weekend, prompting public outcry.
In a letter addressed to the Principal Director of the Directorate of School Education, the North Town Higher Secondary School (NTHSS), Chümoukedima, acknowledged the involvement of one of its students. “After careful verification, it is confirmed that one of the individuals involved in uniform is a student of NTHSS,” the statement read. The school, however, clarified that “the other individuals present during the incident are not from our school.”
Calling the incident “deeply shocking and concerning,” NTHSS stated that the altercation occurred “outside the school premises after school hours.” It assured the authorities that “appropriate disciplinary action against the student will be initiated as per the school laid down rules,” and reaffirmed its commitment to “upholding discipline, integrity and the safety of all its students.”
Student unions demand accountability and action
The Konyak Students’ Union Chümoukedima (KSUC) issued a strongly worded statement, saying it was “deeply disappointed and disturbed by the action of those involved in this act.” Referring to the perpetrators as the “so-called ‘Girl’s Gangster’,” the union demanded that “every individual whoever involved in the Gangster’s team” submit “one video clip with apology note… by stating their personal detail” by June 2.
KSUC warned that failure to meet this demand “will worsen the situation with no option left than to take another action upon the culprits’ team by the Union.” It also called upon the school to “take stern befitting action upon the students whoever is involved in the bullying act against the victim.”
Echoing similar sentiments, the Seyochung Area Students’ Union (SASU) said it was “deeply shocked, disappointed and angered” by the behavior displayed. “Acts of violence and humiliation, especially among the students, are unacceptable and must never be taken lightly,” it said. SASU declared its support for KSUC and the Chümoukedima Town Students’ Union (CTSU), adding, “Such behavior has no place in our society or in any educational environment.”
Child protection unit warns against video circulation
Amid widespread sharing of the video online, the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), Chümoukedima, issued a public advisory warning that such acts violate child protection laws.
“While we understand the public’s concern, we strongly urge citizens to refrain from sharing, reposting, or distributing such videos,” the DCPU said in its statement. It reminded the public that “recording and circulating videos of children in distress or involved in violence is a violation of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, and can attract legal consequences.”
The DCPU added that further circulation of the video “violates their right to privacy and dignity, and may lead to re-traumatization.” It called on the public to “act responsibly and sensitively when it comes to matters involving children,” and advised people to report such content to the authorities or contact the emergency child helpline at 1098.
NBSE issues statewide advisory on bullying
In what appears to be a broader institutional response to rising concerns, the Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE) issued a circular on June 2 directed at all registered schools under its jurisdiction. The circular, titled ”Reiteration of Measures to Prevent Ragging and Bullying in Schools”, instructed school heads to implement a range of measures immediately.
“Ragging and bullying… are not only detrimental to the emotional and psychological well-being of students but also violate the principles of a safe and inclusive learning environment,” the Board stated.
RELATED | Chümoukedima Town Students’ Union seeks action over viral bullying video
The NBSE directed schools to:
1. Conduct regular awareness programmes and counselling sessions.
2. Constitute anti-ragging and anti-bullying committees with representation from staff, parents, and students.
3. Install anonymous complaint/suggestion boxes.
4. Display notices across school premises stating that such acts are strictly prohibited and will invite disciplinary action.
5. Sensitize staff to identify and respond empathetically to such issues.
Schools were told to “treat this matter with utmost seriousness and urgency,” with NBSE stressing that “the safety and well-being of our students must remain our highest priority.”