GANGTOK, : SDF Cheli Morcha in-charge Komal Chamling has expressed deep concerns
on the recent reports of horrific sexual assaults against children in Sikkim.
In
recent days, Sikkim has been shaken by reports of horrific sexual assaults
against children, said Komal in a press statement on Saturday. She highlighted
about these alleged incidents which were registered under POCSO Act in various
police stations.
“Unfortunately,
Sikkim seems increasingly desensitized to such tragedies. News of sexual
assaults, suicides, or dead bodies found along riverbanks no longer sparks
collective outrage. This public apathy is as troubling as the crimes
themselves. What has numbed Sikkimese society to these horrors? Why does our
Sikkimese society fail to respond with the urgency these violations deserve?
What has Sikkim lost the ability to feel rage?,” said the SDF Cheli Morcha
leader.
Komal
noted that though Sikkim has made strides in economic and educational progress,
particularly for women, rising cases of POCSO and
violence against women reveal that economic gains alone are not enough. “True
progress lies in how we safeguard the most marginalized—women and children.
Despite rapid development, our social values and gender norms have not evolved
at the same pace. How can we take pride in Sikkim’s growth when we fail to
protect our girl children?,” she said.
The
SDF Cheli Morcha leader asserted that this is a collective failure all must
acknowledge.
“Women,
in particular, play a vital role in fostering resilience in young girls. This
begins by taking care of our own bodies and learning to set clear boundaries.
This begins by breaking the silence around abuse, openly addressing it rather
than hiding it as we tend to do. We must challenge outdated and patriarchal
gender roles within our homes, teaching girls their self-worth and right to
safety. Men, equally, bear responsibility for raising confident young women who
can protect themselves, fostering a culture of respect and equality. There is
also a dire need for education in schools teaching students about sexual
health, safety and consent.”
Komal
recalled that the 2024 case of Gisele Pelicot in France, where a woman bravely
faced her abusers - her husband being one among them - in court, inspired
global reflection on sexual violence.
“Sikkim’s
recent cases, like the Geyzing assault case, are no less painful and shocking.
Many child victims endure years of silence, unable to speak out. Who will speak
up for these children? What role do we play in allowing such violence to
persist? What role does our silence play in perpetuating this silent epidemic?”
“This
question transcends politics and requires a unified response. I appeal that in
this regard, we must move beyond politics and come together beyond our
individual political platforms to address this issue that affects us all. We
must no longer ignore this silent epidemic,” said the SDF Cheli Morcha
in-charge.
