Bodies condemn rape, murder
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 12 2012:
Against the backdrop of the murder of Kh Catherine and the rape of students by armed militant cadres in Tamenglong, the Frontal Catholic Lay Organisations of Manipur expressed deep shock and sadness that innocent children have become tools for pleasure and human shields for criminals in the State.
During an informal meeting of the FCLOM held on October 11 in connection with the International Day of Girl Child, the organisation also felt that children should grow up in a secure atmosphere, said a statement issued by the information and publicity secretary of All Manipur Catholic Union (AMCU), Dr C Mathew Kamei.
Appealing the Government to book and punish the culprits involved in crimes against children, the statement further urged the Government to speedily extend helping hand to innocent victims and their families.
The union also appealed all parents, religious and social organisations to register condemnation of such heinous acts and take special measure for the protection and safeguarding of children's right and ensure a safe and conducive atmosphere for the children.
The statement further appealed all insurgent groups operating both in the hill and valley not to harass children in any way and disturb educational institutions.
Meanwhile, Manipur Alliance for Child Rights, Maring Lane, Checkon has condemned the rape of four students in Tamenglong district and killing of Catherine alias Shanthoi in Chandel.
Stating that the police investigation in regard to the killing of Catherine is apparently tardy, a statement issued by convenor of MACR, K Pradipkumar urged all concerned to extend cooperation to the police so that the absconding culprit/s are booked at the earliest.
The MACR also appealed the MSCW to be ever vigilant and pro-active in order to deliver ultimate justice to the victims and women of the State.