The Child Welfare Committee (CWC), Phek, has appealed to the public, media organisations, civil society groups and social media users to strictly refrain from disclosing any information that could reveal the identity of the child victim in the recent sexual abuse case reported in the district.
In a statement, the Committee expressed deep concern over the circulation of information relating to the case on social media and other public platforms. It urged everyone not to disclose, either directly or indirectly, the identity of the victim or the accused, including details such as the village, school, family information, photographs, videos or any other particulars that could lead to the identification of the child.
The CWC reminded the public that the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, along with other applicable laws, strictly prohibits disclosure of the identity of a child victim of sexual offences. It cautioned that even indirect references, including the mention of a particular village, institution, or any identifying detail, may compromise the child’s identity and undermine the child’s right to privacy, dignity, and protection.
Emphasising that the best interests of the child must remain paramount, the Committee urged the public to refrain from publishing or sharing the names of the victim or the accused, or any identifying particulars; avoid mentioning the village, school, family details, or any information that could directly or indirectly reveal the identity of the child; refrain from forwarding photographs, videos, or documents related to the case; and report responsibly and allow the investigation and judicial process to proceed without prejudice.
While appreciating the concern and support shown by the public in seeking justice for the child, the Committee appealed for restraint and adherence to the law to ensure that the victim’s rights, dignity and future remain protected.
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Meanwhile, the Chakhesang Students’ Union (CSU) strongly condemned the alleged sexual assault on a minor boy, describing the incident as a heinous crime that deserves the strictest action under the law.
Expressing concern over what it described as a rise in cases of child sexual abuse in Phek district, the Union said such recurring incidents have become a matter of grave public concern requiring immediate and uncompromising intervention from the authorities.
The CSU warned that any crimes against minors are intolerable and would not be condoned under any circumstances.
The CSU demanded that the accused be investigated and prosecuted under the stringent provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and all other applicable laws without delay.
Reiterating its zero-tolerance policy towards crimes against children, the Union called for a fair, impartial and time-bound investigation, adequate protection for the victim and witnesses, strict confidentiality of the child’s identity, and an investigation free from any external interference.
The Union also stated that it would closely monitor the investigation and judicial proceedings to ensure there is no delay, interference or attempt to shield the accused.
Expressing solidarity with the child and the victim’s family, the CSU urged citizens to promptly report any incidents of child abuse, sexual exploitation or violence against minors to the nearest law enforcement agency and the office of the Chakhesang Students’ Union.
“Silence protects perpetrators; timely reporting and collective action protect our children,” the Union stated, reaffirming its commitment to combating all forms of violence against children and ensuring that every child lives in safety, dignity and free from fear.
