Manipur police arrest man for sharing obscene pictures with minor girl in Imphal
Summary
A 28-year-old man in Imphal was arrested by Manipur police after allegedly sharing obscene images with a minor girl. The victim’s father lodged a complaint, leading to charges under the IT Act and POCSO. The accused, identified as Chawangbou Thiumai alias Prinmai, faces judicial custody and is being prosecuted for sexual offences involving a minor girl
Introduction
Ever paused and asked yourself: “How deep does the internet reach into our private spaces—and at what cost?” That’s the unsettling reality behind a recent case in Imphal where an adult male allegedly shared obscene content with a minor. This incident isn’t just another statistic; it’s a disturbing flashpoint showing how technology intersects with child protection challenges. Let’s unpack the story, the law, the impact—and what it means for the families and communities involved.
1. The Incident: What Happened in Imphal?
Back in May 2025, a minor girl’s father filed a complaint after discovering that someone had circulated obscene visuals involving his daughter. The accused, a 28‑year‑old man named Chawangbou Thiumai alias Prinmai, had allegedly shared nude or sexualized photos of the girl. The complaint immediately triggered an investigation—which culminated in his arrest by the women’s police team from Imphal West district
It’s a scenario that sends chills: a trusted adult exploiting a vulnerable child, using digital media to share the content—no camera lenses, no filters, just betrayal of trust.
2. Who Is the Accused and What Were the Allegations?
Chawangbou Thiumai, aged 28, resides in Kanglatongbi Namdilong, Imphal West. Identified through forensic digital tracing and local investigations, he is accused of committing sexual offences involving a minor. During interrogation, he reportedly admitted to these allegations—and is now in judicial custody facing legal consequences
There’s little clarity on motive—whether it was coercion, grooming, or an isolated act—but either way, the emotional and legal fallout is significant.
The Arrest and Investigative Process
Once the complaint was lodged (May 8), police acted swiftly. The women’s team at Imphal West apprehended the accused from his home. He was produced before the POCSO court and remanded in judicial custody to ensure no interference with evidence collection
The investigation likely includes:
- Seizing mobile devices or digital storage containing the shared images.
- Downloading and verifying evidence chains.
- Interviewing witnesses or family members for context.
- Possible psychological evaluation of the accused and victim for court.
FAQs
1. What laws apply when obscene images of a minor are shared digitally in India?
This case invokes both the POCSO Act, 2012 (for minor protection) and provisions of the Information Technology Act related to transmitting obscene digital material.
2. How was the accused in Imphal identified and arrested?
Police acted after a parental complaint. The accused was identified through local inquiry and digital investigation and was arrested by the Imphal West women’s police team under POCSO criteria
3. What sort of punishment could the accused face?
Under POCSO, the case may be treated as aggravated sexual assault if proven. Sentences range from rigorous imprisonment of several years, possibly up to 20 years, plus fines. The IT Act adds further penalties.
4. How are digital evidences handled under POCSO cases?
Devices are seized, data extracted with forensic tools, chain-of-custody documented, and content verified. This becomes part of the chargesheet and court probes.
5. What preventive steps can protect children online?
Parents and educators should teach boundaries, reporting steps, consent concepts. Community awareness sessions on online safety and child rights are key in preventing such exploitation.
