A minor girl was allegedly sexually assaulted by her guardian in Dimapur, with the accused, identified as O Watimeren Jamir, reportedly remanded to judicial custody on Friday, May 29, after the District Court in Dimapur revoked his anticipatory bail.
According to various media reports, the alleged case surfaced on May 23 after the minor was taken into protective custody by Child Helpline Dimapur. She was later taken for medical examination by the Women Police Station in Dimapur.
Reports stated that an FIR under relevant provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) was filed on May 25, following which investigation was initiated by the Women Police Station.
The accused was reportedly serving as the guardian of the minor while she pursued her studies in Dimapur. Sources stated that the child had allegedly been staying with the guardian’s family for nearly two years.
Jamir is reportedly a former president of the All Nagaland College Students’ Union (ANCSU) and former General Secretary of the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF).
During a press conference held in Dimapur on Thursday, the Chang Union Dimapur (CUD), Chang Women Organisation Dimapur (CWOD), and Chang Students’ Union Dimapur (CSUD) condemned the alleged incident and appealed for justice for the survivor.
CUD President Lanuchuba Chang stated that the organisations became aware of the matter on May 24 and subsequently visited the Women Police Station to inquire into the case.
According to the organisations, officials of the Child Welfare Committee and Child Helpline informed them that the child was under protective care and being lodged at the Child Friendly Room.
According to reports, the accused had sought anticipatory bail and appeared before police on May 27 to record his statement.
CWOD Vice President Bendangmemla Chang described the alleged incident as “deeply painful” and called for stronger safeguards for women and children, while CSUD Vice President I Chejing Chang urged the public and media to protect the identity and dignity of the minor survivor and refrain from speculation or victim-blaming.
Investigation into the case is ongoing.
