NPF suspends Watimeren Jamir as outrage grows
Police have arrested a second accused in connection with the alleged sexual assault of a minor in Dimapur on May 30, marking a key development in the ongoing investigation. According to Global Window, the accused has been identified as Tsuktimongba, 37, who is married. Further details are part of the ongoing probe.
The development comes amid mounting public concern, with the Naga People’s Front (NPF) relieving O. Watimeren Jamir from his post as general secretary (Central) and suspending him from active and primary membership with immediate effect on moral grounds.
In a press release issued by its Press Bureau, the party stated that the suspension will remain in force until further orders, pending the outcome of the police investigation.
Meanwhile, several civil society organisations have issued strong condemnations of the alleged incident, calling for a time-bound, impartial and thorough investigation while urging protection of the victim’s dignity and privacy.
The Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) described the incident as deeply disturbing and unacceptable, noting that violence against minors raises serious concerns over the safety and dignity of vulnerable individuals. It urged that the legal process be allowed to proceed without speculation and appreciated the swift action of law enforcement so far, while calling for a transparent and time-bound investigation.
The Ao Lanur Telongjem expressed deep shock and anguish over the alleged abuse of a minor by a person entrusted with her care as a guardian. Terming the act “heinous and inhuman,” it extended solidarity with civil society organisations and sympathies to the victim and her family. It also called for rehabilitation, psychological support and timely justice.
The Nagaland Law Students’ Federation (NLSF) said it was “distraught and appalled” by the alleged offence, describing sexual violence against children as among the gravest crimes under law. It demanded strict accountability through due process and called for completion of trial within a stipulated timeframe under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.
The federation also stressed that justice must be neither delayed nor denied, and urged strict protection of the victim’s identity under Section 23 of the POCSO Act.
The Angami Women Organisation (AWO) termed the incident deeply disturbing, stating that crimes against children leave long-lasting psychological scars and destroy a child’s sense of safety and trust. It called for a swift and impartial investigation and urged full support for the victim, including medical care, counselling and rehabilitation.
The Dimapur Sumi Council (DSC) expressed profound outrage over what it described as prolonged abuse of a minor student allegedly by her guardian, calling it a serious breach of trust and human rights violation. It demanded a thorough investigation and maximum punishment if the allegations are proven in court.
All organisations reiterated their call for speedy justice, protection of the survivor’s dignity, and strict accountability, urging authorities to ensure a fair and interference-free investigation.