The Nagaland Alliance for Children and Women Rights (NACWR) has expressed deep concern over the recent surge in sexual assault cases across Nagaland and the delays in securing justice for survivors, calling for urgent action from the government and law enforcement agencies.
In a statement issued by NACWR President Azungla Imsong and General Secretary Jenpu Rhakho Rongmei, the organization said it was profoundly alarmed by the increasing number of sexual violence cases involving minors, alongside what it described as unacceptable delays in the judicial process.
The alliance pointed out that while the sexual assault case involving a 14-year-old girl remains unresolved, two more cases have recently surfaced in Niuland and Dimapur districts. According to NACWR, the latest incidents involve the alleged sexual assault of a seven-year-old child by an adult and the assault of a 16-year-old minor that reportedly resulted in pregnancy.
Describing the crimes as particularly heinous, the organization noted that the significant age gap between the victims and perpetrators, coupled with the extreme vulnerability of the children involved, underscores the gravity of the offences.
NACWR stressed that such incidents should not be viewed through the lens of religion, region or tribal identity. Instead, it said, they reflect the actions of individuals willing to disregard the law and endanger the safety of society.
The organization further argued that the recurrence of such crimes points to a broader systemic failure, stating that when laws are not strictly enforced and authorities fail to act decisively, public outrage grows and confidence in the justice system diminishes.
“Nagaland is not merely a land for building generational wealth for a select few. It is the shared responsibility of every leader, authority and citizen to create a safe environment for women and children,” the statement said.
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NACWR warned that the growing number of crimes against women and children is deeply troubling and cautioned that continued inaction could lead to the perception that the state tolerates violence against its most vulnerable citizens.
Condemning the incidents in the strongest terms, the alliance expressed solidarity with all survivors and their families and reiterated its commitment to advocating for their rights and protection.
The organization also placed a series of demands before the government and relevant authorities, including immediate and time-bound investigation and prosecution of all pending and newly reported cases.
It further called for stronger implementation of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and other laws intended to safeguard women and children, as well as greater accountability from the Government of Nagaland and law enforcement agencies.
According to NACWR, prompt and decisive action is essential to restore public confidence in the justice system and ensure that no survivor is denied justice.
“The safety and dignity of our women and children are non-negotiable. The time for silence and delay is over,” the organization stated.
NACWR also appealed to civil society organizations, community leaders and citizens across Nagaland to unite in adopting a zero-tolerance approach towards sexual violence and to work collectively to ensure safer communities for women and children.
