Shillong, May 31: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has strongly condemned the alleged sexual assault and physical abuse of a 14-year-old girl from the Chang community in Nagaland, asserting that crimes against children must be dealt with firmly and without delay.
In a statement posted on social media platform X, Sangma said no child should be subjected to such trauma and stressed that those responsible must face the full force of the law. He called for a swift, fair and impartial investigation and urged authorities to pursue justice under all applicable laws, including the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act.
“My thoughts are with the victim and her family,” the chief minister said, adding that society must stand united against violence and abuse of children and work collectively to ensure a safer environment for every child.
The case has sparked widespread outrage across Nagaland and the Northeast, with civil society groups and student organisations demanding stringent action against the accused and justice for the survivor.
A significant development occurred on May 29 when a district court in Dimapur rejected and revoked the anticipatory bail application of the principal accused, following which he was taken into police custody.
The Naga Students’ Federation condemned the incident as a “heinous, barbaric and inhumane” act and called for a prompt and impartial investigation. The federation also expressed solidarity with the victim and her family while demanding that justice be delivered without delay.
Similarly, the Angami Students’ Union described the alleged crime as an egregious act incompatible with a civilised society and urged authorities to expedite legal proceedings to ensure the accused receives the maximum punishment prescribed by law.
Police said the investigation is continuing and that legal proceedings have been initiated in accordance with established procedures, with the welfare and rights of the minor being prioritised throughout the process.
The incident has renewed calls for strict enforcement of child protection laws and stronger safeguards against sexual violence and abuse of children.
