FIR registered in Kiphire; AST and NSCW demand strict action against accused officer
A rape allegation against a serving Nagaland Police constable has triggered widespread outrage in Kiphire, with police suspending the accused officer and civil society organizations demanding stringent action after the alleged sexual assault of an 82-year-old woman.
The accused, Heluikie Nsanglung of the Armed Branch, DEF Kiphire, was placed under suspension on Thursday following the registration of a case in connection with the alleged assault.
According to the order, disciplinary proceedings are being contemplated against Heluikie Nsanglung in connection with allegations that he raped the elderly woman on June 17.
The order stated that during the period of suspension, his headquarters would remain RHQ DEF Kiphire and that he would not be permitted to leave the headquarters without prior permission. It further stated that he would be entitled only to subsistence allowance as per the rules.
Meanwhile, the incident has triggered widespread condemnation from civil society organi-zations and statutory bodies.
The Akehta Sangtam-larü Thsingmüjang (AST) expressed shock and outrage over the alleged assault, describing it as a gross violation of human dignity and an attack on society’s moral conscience.
In a statement issued through its media cell, AST said the fact that the accused is a police personnel made the incident even more disturbing, alleging that a law enforcement officer entrusted with protecting the vulnerable had instead betrayed public trust.
The organization demanded the immediate release of the accused’s photograph, dismissal from service following due process, denial of bail, a fast-track trial, an impartial investigation, and comprehensive support for the survivor.
“Leniency in this case would send a dangerous message that perpetrators can evade accountability through power or position,” AST stated.
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The Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW) also condemned the alleged rape and called for strict action against the accused.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the commission described the incident as a grave violation of human dignity and public trust. It expressed concern that the accused is a police personnel, stating that crimes committed by those entrusted with upholding the law undermine confidence in the justice system and institutions meant to protect citizens.
Describing the incident as “horrific and inhuman,” the commission said the alleged assault on an elderly woman reflected an alarming trend of violence against women and girls.
The commission called upon the competent authorities to ensure that the accused is dealt with strictly in accordance with the law and that the punishment prescribed for such offences is applied without delay.
It also appealed to citizens to remain vigilant in safeguarding the dignity and safety of women and children and expressed solidarity with the survivor and her family.
