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 We must challenge outdated and patriarchal gender roles within our homes, teaching girls their self-worth and right to safety.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.