Kohima murder case: SAYO rally demands apprehension of all involved, zero leniency

Morung Express News
Kohima | November 18

A massive crowd of thousands gathered in response to a rally organised by the Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO) at PHQ junction in Kohima this morning.

Dressed in traditional attire, men and women of all ages stood together to express solidarity and outrage over the brutal murder of Vihozhonu Zao, whose death on late October has deeply shaken the community as well as the State. 

Speakers at the rally reiterated the collective demand for either capital punishment or life imprisonment for the accused, and besides call for a swift, transparent and comprehensive investigation, ensuring that every perpetrator is held accountable.

Following a short programme, the participants marched to the office of the Deputy Commissioner (DC) and submitted a memorandum addressed to the Chief Minister through the DC Kohima, seeking support and intervention.

Expressing deep anguish over the “inhuman and unacceptable” killing, which it said has shaken public conscience and created an atmosphere of fear, insecurity and anger among women and girls, SAYO stated in its memorandum that the incident extends beyond a single community and concerns the safety and well-being of all citizens.

Stating that it stands for justice, equity, and collective well-being, SAYO demanded the ‘immediate apprehension of all those involved’ and urged authorities to identify and arrest every individual linked directly or indirectly to the murder, ensuring that no perpetrator or accomplice remains at large.

Given the ‘brutality and gravity’ of the crime, it further called for the strictest and most deterrent punishment under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023. It urged the State Government to ensure that the prosecution is carried out with full seriousness and without compromise, and that the accused face exemplary punishment to send a strong message against crimes targeting women.
Given the seriousness of the offence, it appealed to the Government and competent authorities to oppose any bail application filed by the accused, adding that it will also oppose any individual attempting to secure bail for them under any circumstances.

The organisation also stressed the need to strengthen investigation and monitoring, urging the SIT to leave no stone unturned in apprehending all those involved in the murder or in suppressing evidence related to late Zao, while ensuring a speedy, accurate and transparent probe.

SAYO also demanded regular monitoring by senior police officials and the use of modern investigative technologies, including CCTV surveillance, digital video forensics, call data record analysis, DNA profiling, automated fingerprint identification, cyber forensics and digital evidence extraction, as well as GPS and geological tracking, forensic anthropology, and advanced autopsy imaging.

With rising concerns over women’s safety, it has asked for government action towards strict enforcement of laws against sexual harassment, assault and trafficking, while demanding for mandatory installation of CCTVs in public spaces, transport hubs and high-risk zones.

In light of widespread public concern, SAYO also requested the Chief Minister to issue public assurance reaffirming the government’s commitment for zero tolerance for crimes against mankind, and swift justice delivery.

It has also requested the CM’s intervention in pursuing and expediting the case which has been forwarded to the concerned state authorities for further investigation.

The organisation stated that it will continue to stand firm until justice is served and concrete steps are taken to promote and protect women and the society.

Meanwhile, Kekhriesezo Zao from Porutso Khel, Jakhama Village paid  tribute to victim, describing her as a beloved daughter of the community. 

Condemning the crime as a grave violation of safety, trust and dignity, she said that the community “will not forgive this act” and reiterated the demand for a transparent investigation and justice.

The Jakhama Youth Organisation (JYO) described the murder as “a profound betrayal that violates the sanctity of home and community,” noting that the victim’s life was taken in what should have been the safest place - her own home and justice is “still being awaited with urgency.”

While acknowledging the police for arresting the primary accused, the Southern Angami Women Organisation (SAWO) stressed that the investigation must continue vigorously until every individual involved, directly or indirectly, is brought to justice.

The organisation firmly opposed any consideration of bail for the accused and called for the harshest punishment permissible under the law.

Echoing these concerns, Angami Youth Organisation (AYO) president Keosül Christopher Ltu said the large turnout was not mobilised but a reflection of genuine public anger and grief. Pointing to the many allegations and unanswered questions, he called for clarity, accountability, and an investigation that spares no individual or family connected to the case.

Highlighting Section 49 and 103 of the BNS Act 2023, Angami Women Organisation President, Neithono R. Sothu stated that whoever commits murder as well as an abettor is punishable with death or life imprisonment and a fine.

Other speakers include President of the Western Angami Youth Organisation, Chakhroma Youth Organisation and Northern Angami Youth Organisation.