Third accused claim surfaces
The Dimapur Eastern Nagaland Students’ Union (DENSU) has raised concerns over what it described as possible procedural lapses in the investigation of the recent POCSO case in Dimapur and has demanded the constitution of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by an officer of at least Inspector General (IG) or Deputy Inspector General (DIG) rank.
Addressing the media, DENSU officials questioned the circumstances surrounding the interrogation of the prime accused, Watimeren, citing the circulation of a ‘mug shot’ where he was allegedly smiling.
The union also called for the questioning of the accused’s mother after she reportedly made statements regarding the character of the minor victim. DENSU further demanded that the accused’s sister be questioned as part of the investigation.
In another significant claim, DENSU alleged that a third individual, described as an elderly man, may also have been involved in the case. While declining to disclose the person’s identity or community, the union claimed that the individual had allegedly touched the child in a manner that could amount to molestation and urged investigators to question him as well.
“The first thing that makes us and the public angry is the smiling mugshot of Watimeren. Does that mean he is comfortable? Such comfort during interrogation is questionable.
Being comfortable during interrogation is a disrespect to the entire community,” DENSU representatives alleged, describing it as a possible procedural lapse.
The student body further claimed to have received information that the prime accused may seek bail on medical grounds, allegedly citing heart-related health issues. DENSU opposed any move to grant bail and maintained that the accused should remain in custody while the investigation is underway.
Expressing concern for the wellbeing of the child, DENSU officials said they had received reports that the victim was experiencing severe emotional distress and allegedly having suicidal thoughts. In view of the seriousness of the case, the union appealed to Nagaland Director General of Police, Rupin Sharma, to constitute an SIT led by an IG or DIG-rank officer.
Warning that public anger could intensify if justice is not delivered, DENSU stated that it would continue to pursue the matter and push for the case to be fast-tracked.
“If justice is not received, we will take it to the streets,” the union said, adding that it would not remain silent until justice is served.
Watsü Mungdang condemns
Watsü Mungdang has strongly condemned the alleged sexual assault of a minor in Dimapur and expressed concern over the nature of the case.
In a statement, the apex Ao women organisation said it was deeply disturbed by the incident and reiterated its demand for a thorough, impartial and time-bound investigation.
Referring to the recent arrest of a second accused, identified as Tsuktimongba, in addition to the earlier arrest of O Watimeren Jamir, the organisation called for all persons involved in the case to be brought to justice in accordance with the law.
Watsü Mungdang stated that crimes against children are an attack on the very fabric of society and cannot be tolerated under any circumstances.
The organisation expressed solidarity with the victim and her family and called upon all sections of society to unite in protecting the rights, dignity and safety of children.
It further stated that it would continue to closely monitor the progress of the case and demand complete justice.
The statement was issued by Watsü Mungdang president Tianaro Jamir and general secretary T Narola Longchar.
