Kohima, July 2 (MExN): The Child Welfare Committee (CWC), Phek, on Thursday appealed to the public, media organisations, civil society groups, student bodies and social media users to refrain from disclosing any information that could reveal the identity of a child involved in a recent sexual abuse case.
In a public appeal, the Committee expressed concern over the circulation of information related to the case on social media and other public platforms, stating that the disclosure of identifying details could compromise the child's right to privacy, dignity and protection.
The CWC reminded the public that the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, along with other applicable legal provisions, strictly prohibits the disclosure of the identity of child victims of sexual offences. It cautioned that even indirect references—such as mentioning the child's village, school, family or other identifying particulars—could lead to the identification of the victim.
Emphasising that the best interests of the child must remain the foremost consideration in all matters concerning children, the Committee urged the public to ensure that expressions of support and demands for justice do not endanger the child's welfare.
Accordingly, it appealed to all concerned to refrain from publishing or sharing the names of the victim or the accused, avoid revealing the child's village, school, family details or any other identifying information, refrain from forwarding photographs, videos or documents related to the case, and report responsibly while allowing the investigation and judicial process to proceed without prejudice.
The Committee also appreciated the concern and solidarity shown by the public in seeking justice for the child, but urged everyone to exercise restraint and act in accordance with the law to safeguard the child's rights, dignity and future.
"Let us stand together for justice while safeguarding the privacy and best interests of every child," the Committee stated.
The appeal comes in the wake of a recent alleged sexual assault of a minor boy in Phek district. As per reports, the Phek Police registered a case on July 1 under the relevant provisions of the POCSO Act based on a written complaint, constituted a special investigation team and arrested the accused on the same day. Following the completion of legal formalities, the accused was remanded to judicial custody, while the child is receiving appropriate care and protection.
