The Indian Arrival Committee (IAC) says it was “expecting more stringent actions” following the findings of report on the Human Services Ministry’s investigation of Neesa Gopaul’s death.
The group did, however, say the pronouncements subsequent to the report are a step in the right direction in holding those responsible for the protection of the nation’s children accountable.
In a press release, the IAC said that the sixteen-year-old’s suffering “was compounded by the lack of interest shown by some who were mandated by their jobs to continuously monitor her situation and provide unconditional support and protection.” It said too that others who may have contributed to Gopaul’s prolonged suffering by ignoring her cries for help have escaped sanctions. As a result, it hoped that the case would instil a sense of “urgency and commitment” in those tasked with nurturing and protecting children.
The team tasked by Minister of Human Services Priya Manickchand to investigate the handling of Neesa Gopaul’s case has recommended that two officers be fired and another demoted for their failure in adequately assisting the child, who suffered more than a year of abuse.
The IAC also said it welcomed the Management Information System designed for the Child Care and Protection Agency and the efforts to house the agency in a separate building. “While these resources will help to improve the services provided by the agency, the IAC feels that a more hands-on and coordinated approach is needed to prevent such horrific incidents from recurring,” it noted.
Further, it reiterated its calls for all organisations to be relentless in their efforts to rid society of the violence and abuse perpetrated on women and children. It urged the public to be vigilant and to report such incidents, adding that it stands ready to collaborate with any organisation and support any initiative aimed at preventing such abuse.
