DIMAPUR, MAY 8 (MExN): The Western Chakhesang Hoho (WCH), Dimapur Ao Youth Organisation (DAYO), and Angami Youth Organization, Diphupar (AYOD) have strongly condemned the assault on Western Chakhesang Youth Organisation (WCYO) President Wekupe Therie that occurred on May 2 at Naga United Village, Chumoukedima.
In a statement, the WCH termed the incident a “clear case of street hooliganism,” alleging that Therie was brutally assaulted by a group, resulting in grievous injuries and extensive damage to his property. The Hoho alleged that the attack involved “two habitual offenders currently out on bail, along with their accomplices.”
Stating that such acts were “morally unacceptable and undermine the values of humanity, brotherhood, peace, and harmonious coexistence,” the Hoho also expressed concern over the growing presence of anti-social elements in society.
While appreciating the prompt efforts of law enforcement agencies in investigating the case and arresting some accused persons, including Inoto Chishi, the WCH urged authorities to intensify efforts to apprehend the remaining accused and ensure justice without delay. It further cautioned against “any interference or grant of bail that may compromise the due process of law.”
The Hoho also conveyed solidarity with the victim and WCYO members and thanked organisations and individuals who had condemned the incident.
Meanwhile, DAYO expressed its “strongest outrage and unequivocal condemnation” over the alleged assault on Therie, who is also Advisor of the Western Naga Youth Front (WNYF).
“The barbaric nature of the attack… is not only an attack upon an individual leader but a direct assault on the very principles of peace, unity, and brotherhood that the Naga society has upheld through generations,” DAYO stated.
The organisation further stated that it was “extremely disturbing that a minor misunderstanding could allegedly escalate into such a merciless and life-threatening act of mob violence,” adding that “no provocation or circumstance can ever justify taking the law into one’s own hands.”
DAYO urged law enforcement agencies to conduct a “thorough, impartial, and time-bound investigation” and ensure that all perpetrators are identified, apprehended, and prosecuted according to law. It also appealed to tribal bodies, youth organisations, civil society groups, and citizens to stand united against violence and criminal intimidation.
AYOD also expressed “profound shock, deep concern, and strongest condemnation” over the incident, stating that Therie was reportedly assaulted by Inato Chishi and his associates, resulting in severe injuries requiring intensive medical attention.
“Such acts of brutality, violence, and intimidation are wholly unacceptable in any civilized and democratic society where the values of human dignity, justice, mutual respect, and communal harmony are upheld,” AYOD stated.
The organisation maintained that violence and intimidation have no place in society and urged authorities to ensure that justice is administered fairly, impartially, and in accordance with the law.
AYOD further called upon citizens, community leaders, civil society organisations, and institutions to collectively reject violence and work towards fostering peace, mutual respect, stability, and unity.
