ITANAGAR, SEP 8:

The Arunachal Pradesh Women’s Welfare Society (APWWS) has expressed shock and strongly condemned a viral video purportedly showing an elderly person, identified as Biri Tara, allegedly abusing a minor girl.

The Society termed the alleged incident serious and said there could be no compromise on the safety, dignity and protection of children. It stressed that every child has the right to live free from violence, abuse, intimidation and exploitation.

APWWS appreciated the Itanagar Women Police Station for arresting the accused and called for a swift, impartial and time-bound investigation in accordance with law. It said that if the allegations are established, stringent legal action should be taken under applicable child-protection laws.

The Society urged authorities to treat the child as a survivor requiring protection and support and ensure appropriate counselling, care, legal assistance and a safe environment throughout the investigation and any subsequent proceedings.

APWWS also appealed to the public, social media users and media organisations to refrain from circulating, forwarding or reposting the video or any material that could reveal the minor’s identity. It said sharing such content could violate the child’s privacy and cause further psychological harm.

The Society called for greater awareness among families, communities, educational institutions and local authorities about child sexual abuse, mandatory reporting, early intervention and the responsibility of adults to protect children.

Stating that child protection was a collective responsibility, APWWS urged the authorities to act with urgency and sensitivity and maintain zero tolerance towards abuse of children.