Kathmandu, August 18:

Mother of 15-year-old Maina Sunwar, who was allegedly raped and killed by security forces, has vowed to keep the fight for justice going until the culprits are brought to book.

“I can’t get my daughter back, but I will continue to fight for justice until the culprits, who mercilessly killed my daughter, are legally punished,” said Devi Sunwar, mother of Maina.

“I am seeking justice not just for me but for the families, who have lost their children in the conflict.”

The security personnel who killed innocent children should not be allowed to go scot-free, she said at a programme held today to mark Maina’s birthday. Maina was allegedly abducted and killed in 2003 by security forces. The Maina murder case is pending in court.

David Jonson, a senior adviser to the United Nations, lauded Devi for showing “exceptional courage” and determination to fight for justice. “He pointed out that he had drawn the attention of Speaker Subhas Nembang on the case.

At a time when the Bill to amend and integrate all Military Acts has just been tabled at the Parliament, Jonson said the Military Act should be brought under the civil law system. “There cannot be a separate law for soldiers,” he added.