Shillong: The Khasi Students’ Union is pushing for the immediate arrest of a male nurse accused of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl at NEIGRIHMS. Union members met with East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem on Monday to submit a formal memorandum. They want swift, decisive action.
The incident occurred on July 4 following the victim’s appendicitis surgery. The union claims hospital staff left the girl alone in an observation room without female supervision. The victim later told her mother she was assaulted while recovering. The family filed an FIR at the Mawdiangdiang police outpost that same day.
KSU general secretary Reuben A. Najiar publicly challenged the police response time. “We urged the police to immediately arrest the accused. Although this is a cognisable and non-bailable offence, yet no arrest has been made so far,” Najiar stated. The union also flagged concerns that the accused might flee Shillong if he remains at liberty.
Tensions remain high at the hospital. On July 7, staff members reportedly held a protest in support of the accused, an act the union labeled deeply disturbing. KSU leaders have asked police to investigate those supporters under Section 17 of the POCSO Act for potential obstruction of justice. They are also demanding the suspension of any hospital employees tied to the case to protect witnesses.
Health Minister Wailadmiki Shylla confirmed the government is currently waiting on an internal report from NEIGRIHMS. Officials say they will decide on state intervention once that inquiry concludes.
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