NSCW takes suo-motu cognizance
Kohima, October 27 (MExN): Widespread condemnation has followed the alleged murder of a young woman in Kohima, on the night of October 24, with women’s bodies, civil organisations, youth groups, and sports associations across Nagaland demanding a thorough and speedy investigation and justice for the victim and her family.
In separate statements, the Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW), Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA), Southern Angami Students’ Union (SASU), Western Angami Youth Organisation (WAYO), Old Ministers’ Hill Youth Organisation (OMHYO), Nagaland Basketball Association (NBA), Western Angami Youth Organisation (WAYO), Jakhama Union Kohima (Thenuko Krotho), and Kigwema Youth Organization (KYO) expressed shock and outrage over the incident, describing it as an inhuman act that has shaken the conscience of society.
The NSCW termed the crime “inhuman and brutal” and said it has taken suo motu cognizance of the case. “We appeal in the strongest terms to the law enforcement agencies to expedite the investigation and ensure that the perpetrator(s) of this heinous crime are brought to justice without delay,” the Commission stated. It urged public cooperation in ensuring a fair and transparent process of justice and assured full support to the bereaved family.
Similarly, the NMA condemned the killing and drew attention to violence and human rights violations in Naga areas. In a separate memorandum addressed to the Union Defence Minister, the NMA also condemned reported drone bombings of civilian areas across the border and reiterated that “our lands cannot continue to be the killing fields.” It called for accountability and justice for civilian victims, stressing that peace and security must be protected in all Naga areas.
The NBA described the victim as a rising sports talent who represented Nagaland at the U23 National Basketball Championship earlier this year. “Her life, full of promise and potential, has been cut short by an act of unimaginable violence,” the association stated. It urged the government and police to ensure that justice is swift and uncompromising, calling the tragedy “a devastating loss for the entire sporting community.”
Expressing grief and anger, OMHYO condemned the incident as “deeply disturbing” and urged the investigating authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial probe. “Such an incident within our colony is a grave concern over the increasing occurrence of violent crimes,” it stated, assuring full support to the bereaved family and calling for peace and safety in the community.
The SASU termed the murder “heinous and inhumane,” demanding immediate and transparent action by law enforcement authorities. “The brutality and cruelty exhibited in this crime are unacceptable and warrant the harshest condemnation,” the Union stated, vowing not to rest until justice is served.
The WAYO also condemned the killing, describing it as a “cold-blooded murder” and a “grave violation of human rights.” It urged authorities to act swiftly and bring the perpetrator(s) to justice, expressing solidarity with the victim’s family and reaffirming its commitment to upholding safety, dignity, and justice.
The Jakhama Union Kohima (Thenuko Krotho) said that such heinous and inhuman act “is not a crime against the victim and her family, but a crime against humanity.” The union stated that it stands united in support and fight for justice for the victim and urged upon the investigating authorities to leave no stone unturned to bring out the truth and execute the perpetrators with exemplary punishment at the earliest.
The KYO stated that “the brutal taking of human life is a morally reprehensible act that flagrantly violates fundamental principles of human dignity, compassion and respect. The organisation extended unwavering solidarity to the family members, offering condolences and full support during this dark hour. The KYO has urged law enforcement agencies through investigation and ensure justice is served at the earliest to the victim's family and that those responsible be held accountable for their crimes.
