Dimapur student groups demand SIT probe into minor sexual assault case

Kohima: The Dimapur Eastern Naga Students Union, supported by the Western Naga Youth Front and various civil society groups, has intensified calls for a rigorous investigation into the sexual assault of a minor in Dimapur. Representatives from these organizations met at the Women Police Station on Tuesday to submit formal demands for a transparent, time-bound inquiry led by a Special Investigation Team.

Western Naga Youth Front president Aga Rengma urged authorities to broaden the scope of the charges. He argued that investigators should apply provisions from the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the POCSO Act, and the Arms Act. According to Rengma, reports indicate that a weapon was used to intimidate the victim, making it necessary to charge the accused under the Arms Act regardless of whether the weapon was licensed.

DENSU president Thongule Sangtam raised concerns regarding potential procedural failures in the current investigation. He called for the questioning of the accused person's mother and sister, noting that the alleged abuse occurred within the household over an extended duration. Furthermore, the union is pressing for the arrest of a third suspect and has firmly opposed any attempts to secure bail for the accused on medical grounds.

Sangtam emphasized that the victim is suffering from severe psychological trauma and suicidal tendencies. To ensure accountability, the groups are demanding that the investigation be overseen by an officer at the rank of Deputy Inspector General or Inspector General, with direct monitoring by Director General of Police Rupin Sharma. The organizations have warned of further protests if their demands are not addressed.