The Indian Arrival Committee (IAC) has condemned the brutal murder of 16-year-old Neesa Gopaul and is urging investigators to be steadfast in their efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice.
In a press release the IAC said it noted the concerns raised by Gopaul’s relatives concerning her suffering prior to her death and it “is disturbed to learn that incidents of abuse were reported frequently and, allegedly, no action was taken.” The group said Gopaul’s relatives have suggested that the authorities could have done more to unshackle her from the sadistic torture she was forced to endure.
While the IAC is cognisant of the efforts of the authority responsible for protecting children, it called on the government to investigate the deficiencies that may have led to Gopaul’s cries being unheeded and eventually to her murder.
It calls for an urgent inquiry in addition to the investigation since it is believed that various agencies failed to take preventative action.
Further, it calls on all organisations to use Gopaul’s death as a catalyst to intensify the fight against abuse and violence perpetrated against women and children. It also reminds parents and guardians of their responsibility to nurture and protect those entrusted in their care and urges persons to be vigilant and to report incidence of abuse immediately.
