Civil societies demand justice to children abused by Rev Miller

Shillong, Oct 3: Lympung Ki Seng Kynthei and fifteen organization Wednesday decided to submit a a memorandum to Chief Minister Mukul Sangma  and Social Welfare, Home ministers not only expressing concern over the rape and child abuse by Reverent SK Miller but also to ask the government to ensure justice is delivered.

In a meeting convened by the Lympung Ki Seng Kynthei Wednesday evening, 15 different organisations that included the YWCA,KSU, North East Network, Impulse NGO, MUWWO, Council of Catholic Women, Rilum foundation, Domestic Workers Movement, CSWO among others and attended by more than 60 individuals representing civil society, in one voice strongly condemned the child abuse perpetrated Rev Miller.

The meeting urged the authorities to ensure that justice is done and the perpetrator be brought to book. It stressed that as per law in cases of sexual abuse, the accused is guilty and the onus is on him to prove his innocence. It also raised concerns that it may be that this is not the only institution where such crimes are taking place and hence it  is a test case where if justice is delivered  will ensure that victims will be encouraged to speak out.

Promising to be vigilant these civil society groups urged the authorities such as the police, the child welfare committee, the courts to be proactive and not allow justice to be derailed or subverted by any forces.

The meeting demanded that the statements of the children be recorded by a magistrate at the earliest and that the children should not be subjected to threats and coercion and that there should not be unnecessary delays. The inquiry and judicial process should be completed at the earliest as mandated by law.

It also stresses that the interest of the children is foremost and their safety and security should be ensured. They should not be sent away against their will especially as the inquiry and judicial process is yet to commence. The authorities should also ensure that the pastor’s relatives and workers are not given access to these children as there is apprehension that there may be attempts to intimidate and frighten them.

The meeting stated that the children have shown courage in speaking out and it is their duty to now stand by them and support them.- By Our Reporter