Fresh FIR against Meghalaya legislator in rape case

Shillong: The Meghalaya State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR) has lodged a fresh FIR against Independent legislator Julius K. Dorhphang, who has been accused of raping 14-year-old girl, a police official said on Friday. "We have received a fresh set of four FIRs yesterday (Thursday) in relation to the alleged sexual exploitation of a minor girl from the chairperson of the State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR), Meena Kharkongor," city police chief Vivek Syiem told journalists. "After examining the victim again, the commission chairperson filed an additional FIRs. One of the FIRs has been forwarded to the Ri Bhoi police, and it pertains to allegation of rape by Dorphang in a place in Ri Bhoi," he said. On January 4, a local court issued non-bailable warrant against Dorphang after he failed to appear before the Investigating Officer, probing the case. Dorphang, a former rebel leader of the outlawed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council and now supporting the Congress-led government, went into hiding after police registered a case against him. Syiem said the legislator is still "absconding" but a manhunt is still on to nab him. Two civil society groups, including the powerful womens group Civil Society Womens Organisation, had asked police to issue a red alert for Dorphang. They also reiterated their demand for the resignation of Home Minister H.D.R. Lyngdoh after his sons guest house was used for sexual exploitation, while asking Assembly Speaker Abu Taher Mondal to take action against Dorphang. They also asked Chief Minister Mukul Sangma to take full responsibility and ensure action against the two legislators who are members of the Meghalaya United Alliance government. Police have arrested six persons, which include three women pimps, and waitress at the guest house. -Agency