Rally presses for strict punishment to rapist
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, August 12, 2013:
Hundreds of people, including students from several schools in Lamlai area and leaders of All Manipur Students' Union (AMSU), Imphal East today took to the street and attempted to storm the Lamlai Police Station demanding strict punishment to an alleged rapist whom the police and the family claimed to be a juvenile.
The huge rally that kicked off from Sawombung High School campus marched on the street toward the Lamlai Police Station.
They then, tried to storm the police station demanding that strict punishment be given to Leimapokpam Athemba who had allegedly rape a 9-year-old school girl.
They also shouted that Athemba was 'not a juvenile.' On the way, the protesters were stopped by large number of police personnel.
However, seven prominent leaders from among the demonstrators were later allowed by the police to meet the Lamlai police Officer-In-Charge.
The rally was spearheaded by AMSU, Imphal East after joining hands with Universal Mothers' Organisation (UMO), Lamlai Unit and the Joint Action Committee (JAC) fighting for justice in the case.
Athemba is now in the custody of Lamlai Police Station.
Athemba allegedly sexually assaulted Chambi (name changed) aged 9, at his home on July 17 last.
Both are residents of Litan Nungoi Makhong in Imphal East district.
The family of the alleged rapist and the police have claimed that he is a juvenile, but the Chambi JAC and the local populace of Nungoi Litan Makhong by and large have countered the claim saying Athemba is already 18 and that he must be punished for raping the minor girl.