ITANAGAR, Sep 12:

A 70-year-old woman was allegedly sexually assaulted while returning home from agricultural fields at Pablung village in Dambuk, Lower Dibang Valley district, on September 9, police said.

According to police, the woman was returning home after working in the fields when the accused allegedly choked and forced her to the ground. He reportedly fled after noticing people approaching the area.

A case was registered at Dambuk Police Station under Section 62 read with Sections 64(1), 74 and 109 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

The accused, identified as Kangge Pertin of Pablung village, was arrested and produced before a magistrate. He has been remanded to 14 days’ judicial custody, while further investigation is underway, police said.

Meanwhile, the Arunachal Pradesh Women’s Welfare Society (APWWS) expressed shock and strongly condemned the alleged assault, describing it as a grave violation of the dignity, safety and fundamental rights of an elderly woman.

The APWWS called for strict action against those responsible in accordance with law and urged that the investigation be conducted with utmost sensitivity, keeping the survivor’s dignity, privacy and well-being at the centre.

The Society also appealed to the district administration and concerned authorities to ensure necessary medical care, psychological support, legal assistance and protection for the survivor, while preventing further trauma during the investigation and legal proceedings.

Emphasising that age must never determine whose dignity and safety deserve protection, the APWWS said women of all ages must be able to live with dignity and without fear. It expressed solidarity with the survivor and her family and urged the authorities to ensure justice.