Dimapur: In a disturbing incident that has shaken the community at Rukizu Colony in Pfutsero town, Phek district, an 11-year-old girl was allegedly subjected to prolonged physical and emotional abuse by her foster mother. The case has drawn widespread condemnation from the local community, student bodies, and youth organizations, all calling for immediate legal intervention and justice for the minor.
EastMojo has deliberately withheld the names of the foster guardians in accordance with Section 74 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, which strictly prohibits the disclosure of the name, photograph, school, family, address, or any other details that may reveal the identity of the child involved.
In a resolution, the Rukizu Colony Council raised serious concerns about the safety and well-being of the minor. The Council cited “credible observations” of visible bruises and injuries on the child and reported that she had been living in constant emotional distress and fear.
“It has been brought to our attention, with credible observations, that the accused has been subjecting a minor girl under her foster care to repeated physical and mental torture. The child has been seen with visible bruises and injuries, indicating severe physical assault. Moreover, the child is reported to be under constant emotional distress, living in fear, as the accused threatens her to remain silent about the abuse,” the Council stated.
The Council further condemned the alleged actions, stating that such “inhumane and unlawful behaviour” not only violates the fundamental rights of the child but also brings shame and dishonour to the moral fabric of the community.
In response, the Council unanimously resolved to permanently expel the accused from the premises, barring her from all colony-related activities and facilities.
The Rukizu Youth Organization (RYO) described the alleged acts of violence against the child as “atrocious” and “inhumane.” The organization expressed shock and anger over what it termed an “unprecedented” instance of aggression in the society and culture, stating that it stands in full support of the Rukizu Colony Council’s decision to permanently expel the accused from the colony.
The Pfutsero Town Chakhesang Students’ Union (PTCSU), in its condemnation, labelled the alleged abuse as “morally reprehensible” and a blatant violation of child rights.
“Such acts of cruelty against a vulnerable minor are utterly unacceptable, morally reprehensible and in direct violation of the principles of humanity, child rights, and the values upheld by our community,” the Union stated.
Emphasizing the need for a nurturing environment for all children, the PTCSU urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and take appropriate legal measures. “Let this serve as a stern warning that the PTCSU will not tolerate any form of violence or mistreatment against children in our society,” the Union stated.
All three bodies—the RYO, PTCSU, and the Colony Council—have called upon the authorities to take swift and decisive action under the relevant legal provisions.
“It is imperative that the accused be punished accordingly as per the provisions of the law,” the RYO asserted.
They also extended their support and sympathy to the young victim.
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