DIMAPUR, Feb 26: A 20-year-old nursing student pursuing General Nursing Midwifery (GNM) at District Hospital Dimapur was allegedly assaulted by an unidentified individual inside the hospital’s dental OPD room on Monday morning. According to the Chakhesang Students’ Union (CSU), the assault was carried out by one Likao Ezung, a sweeper at the hospital. Police reports indicate that the incident took place between 8:30 and 9 am while the victim was reportedly cleaning the OPD room. She was found in a traumatized state, with torn clothes, by a colleague.
The hospital authority promptly lodged an FIR with the Women Police Station, and an investigation is underway. Commissioner of Police Dimapur, K Sophie, confirmed that the accused has been apprehended based on CCTV footage and is being detained for questioning. The accused has admitted to the assault, though the motive remains unclear.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with several civil society organizations (CSOs) voicing their outrage. The Western Chakhesang Hoho (WCH) expressed profound shock, condemning the assault as an attack on both the victim and societal values. “Such brutality has no place in a modern, civilized world,” the WCH stated, demanding stringent punishment for the accused and highlighting concerns over security lapses within the hospital. The organization also called for a comprehensive investigation into any potential accomplices or motives behind the crime and urged the immediate termination of the accused’s services.
Similarly, the Western Naga Youth Front (WNYF) condemned the assault as a gross violation of human rights and a breach of workplace trust. “A place meant for care and healing has been tainted by such a horrifying crime,” the WNYF said, urging improved security measures in the hospital and a thorough investigation. The WNYF also expressed solidarity with the victim, offering full support, including medical assistance, counseling, and legal aid.
The Chakhesang Students’ Union Dimapur (CSUD) also reacted with shock, calling the incident a “physical assault, attempt to rape, and murder.” The CSUD emphasized that the crime deeply wounded their community and strongly condemned it, demanding strict legal action against the perpetrator. The union assured full support to the victim and her family, emphasizing that they would not tolerate any attempts to bail out the accused.
The Chakhesang Students’ Union (CSU) also condemned the assault as a “despicable act against an innocent student” and an attack on the safety and dignity of women. The CSU called for a thorough investigation to ensure that the accused and any accomplices face the full force of the law. “Justice must be delivered at the earliest to restore faith in the system,” the CSU stated, stressing the need to send a strong message against such heinous acts.
The CSOs have collectively called for stronger security measures in public institutions to ensure the safety of students, healthcare workers, and all citizens. They vowed to continue advocating for justice and will not remain silent in the face of such crimes. The unions and organizations have pledged to closely monitor the investigation and demand swift action from law enforcement agencies.
“This incident should serve as a wake-up call to all institutions to prioritize the safety and dignity of their employees, particularly women,” the WNYF added, emphasizing that violence against women, especially in professional and educational environments, must be eradicated. The victim’s family and the community have expressed hope for justice and a comprehensive investigation into the crime.
