Imphal gang-rape: Women's body demands speedy trial

IMPHAL: Condemning the gang-rape of two minor girls in Imphal, a women's committee has demanded speedy trial in the case and fitting punishment for the culprits involved in the gruesome incident.
On Friday, social welfare and cooperation minister Nemcha Kipgen said those involved in the crime should face stringent action. The minister also promised to give assistance to the rape survivors in getting justice.
On the night of August 14, on the occasion of Cheiraoba Festival, the two girls were kidnapped and gang-raped on a hillock in Imphal East by some youths.
Police had pulled up six people, including a juvenile, in connection with the crime. On Wednesday, the special court of POCSO, Imphal East, remanded the six of them in police custody for seven days. The juvenile, on the other hand, was sent to an observation home.
The committee, in a statement released on Saturday, appreciated the efforts of Imphal East Police, the district's legal services authority and other relevant civil bodies for their pro-active role in tackling the case. It appealed to the people and the authorities concerned to extend their support and give their co-operation in delivering justice.
The committee demanded measures to check increasing cases of crime against women in the state too, especially during festivals.
On the advice of Nemcha, a joint team of Manipur State Commission for Women, led by its chairperson K Sobita Devi, and Manipur State Social Welfare Board members studied the case. They also counselled and gave moral support to the rape survivors and their families. The victims were examined after taking their consent.
The minister has appealed to women to remain alert for their safety.