SHILLONG: Even though Mawhati MLA Julius Dorphang admitted to raping a 14-year-old girl, the MPCC president downplayed the crime by stating that until proven guilty, he is innocent.
D.D Lapang, who hails from Ri Bhoi, did not condemn the crime but stated in a press communiqué, “Till date he has not been proven guilty or convicted as the court is still examining the case.”
It was in July 2007 that Dorphang surrendered before Lapang when he was the chief minister.
“If the law justifies that he is one of the accused in the raping of the 14-year-old, the MPCC will condemn the independent MLA who is currently a coalition member of the MUA-II alliance,” the statement added.
The statement further said that he should get the same punishment as other criminals. Earlier in the day during a party meeting, Lapang had the same views.
Meanwhile, reacting to a query about Dorphang on the sidelines of the party meeting, Chief Minister Mukul Sangma repeated the same. “Until proven guilty, the law of the land should be allowed to take its course and ensure that there is no angle for any influence into the case.”
When asked about the demand for the resignation of H.D.R Lyngdoh, Chief Minister did not give any specific reply. He, however, said people should have faith in the administration of justice and expressed confidence in the competency of police in investigating the case. Several political parties, had condemned the rape of the minor.
