Nagaland: Foster Mother Arrested for Brutal Abuse of 11-Year-Old Girl in Pfutsero

PFUTSERO- ( Phek District, Nagaland )-  In a shocking case that has sparked widespread outrage in Nagaland, the Phek Police have arrested a woman accused of subjecting an 11-year-old girl to severe physical and psychological abuse in Pfutsero town.

The arrest was made following a formal complaint lodged at the Pfutsero Police Station on June 29, 2025, at approximately 7:00 PM, prompting swift action by law enforcement.

According to a press release issued by the Phek Police Media Cell, the accused, identified as the foster mother and grandmother of the minor, allegedly inflicted prolonged abuse on the child under her care. The complaint detailed “severe abuse,” with reports indicating that the girl was subjected to repeated physical and emotional torture, resulting in visible bruises and cut marks on her body.

Also Read | Assam Launches Statewide Crackdown on Beef Sale: 133 Detained, Over 1 Tonne Seized

The child, who had been living with her foster guardian, reportedly endured constant emotional distress and fear, with threats used to silence her about the abuse.

The case came to public attention after photographs of the girl’s injuries surfaced on social media, triggering alarm among residents and civil society organizations.

The investigation revealed that the accused had relocated from Pfutsero to Chümoukedima before the First Information Report (FIR) was filed.  When the Phek Police, with technical assistance, traced her to Chümoukedima, the suspect reportedly absconded in the early morning hours as the police team approached.

Also Read | Manipur: Elderly Woman, KNO Leader Among Four Killed in Ambush

However, through sustained efforts and collaboration with the Chümoukedima and Dimapur Police, the Phek Police successfully apprehended the accused at Diphupar Police Station.

The police have not disclosed the suspect’s name in compliance with Section 74 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, which prohibits revealing details that could identify the minor involved. The victim has been rescued and is now reported to be safe, receiving necessary care and support.

Authorities have assured that the investigation is ongoing, with a case registered under Section 75 of the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, which addresses cruelty to children and carries stringent penalties.  The incident has drawn sharp condemnation from various community organizations in Pfutsero.

Also Read- | Assam: Massive Eviction Drive in Nalbari: 82 Bighas of Grazing Land Freed from Illegal Encroachers

The Pfutsero Town Mothers’ Association (PTMA) also issued a strong statement, expressing deep sorrow and describing the abuse as an “inhuman act” tantamount to an “attempt to murder.” The association condemned the breach of trust by someone entrusted with the “sacred responsibility” of caregiving and pledged solidarity with the victim and her family. “PTMA reaffirms our community’s zero tolerance toward acts that threaten the safety and dignity of our people,” the statement read.

The Phek Police have commended the cooperation of civil society organizations and the public in bringing the case to light and maintaining a peaceful atmosphere in the district. They have urged citizens to continue coordinating with law enforcement and to report any instances of child abuse or cruelty promptly.

The police reiterated that such acts are punishable under the law and emphasized their commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals. This incident has reignited discussions on child protection and the responsibilities of foster caregivers in Nagaland.

Community leaders and organizations are calling for increased awareness and stronger measures to prevent such abuses, ensuring that children in foster care are safeguarded from harm. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on securing justice for the young victim and addressing the broader implications of this disturbing case.