Arunachal Pradesh: 22 students exploited, principal and warden arrested, school sealed

Arunachal Pradesh: A very shocking case has come to light from East Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh. A complaint of sexual exploitation has been registered against 22 students in Sango English Medium School of the district. Three people including the school warden have been arrested in this case. At present the school has been temporarily closed and the state government has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate.

How did the case come to light?

The matter came to light when a parent lodged a complaint with the Mebo police station on October 29. The parents alleged that school warden Hein Johnson Vaife was sexually exploiting the children. As soon as the complaint was received, the police arrested the warden under the POCSO Act. As the investigation progressed, more parents came forward and lodged complaints about the brutality meted out to their children. So far, a total of 22 students are said to be victims of this crime.

SIT team engaged in investigation

SIT has started investigating the case and visited the school premises. The investigation team has recovered many important documents and digital evidence from the school, which have been sent for forensic examination. According to police officials, the amount of evidence and statements of witnesses suggest that the number of victims may increase further.

Principal and accountant arrested

During the investigation it also came to light that the school administration had tried to suppress this entire matter. According to the parents, school principal Hoinu Vaife and accountant Niangdoiting Vaife attempted to prevent filing of the complaint and conceal the incident. The police also arrested both of them on October 30 under the POCSO Act.

Medical treatment of victims continues

SIT has constituted a special medical board for the victim students. So far, 22 students have been medically examined, and police suspect that the number of students who have been exploited may be higher. This case is creating a stir in the entire Arunachal Pradesh and is raising serious questions on the child protection system. The government has assured that strict action will be taken against the culprits and the safety of children will be ensured.