Nagaland More organisations condemn fatal assault; demand justice

Several organisations have joined in condemning the brutal assault that led to the death of Mhathung Lotha and left Chonben Kikon critically injured in the November 9 incident at Naga Colony, Burma Camp, Dimapur.
NCD: Naga Council Dimapur (NCD) has strongly condemned the repeated and brutal assault on Late Mhathung Lotha, which ultimately led to his death. Terming the act as “inhuman and barbaric,” stated that such incidents must never be allowed to recur in Dimapur.
In a statement, NCD president, GK Rengma and general secretary, LK Peter Anal, denounced the arbitrary imposition of fines and the subsequent manhandling that resulted in what it described as “manslaughter”. It expressed appreciation to Dimapur Police for swiftly apprehending the accused and called for the formation of a Special Investigating Team (SIT) to thoroughly probe the incident.
NCD reminded that Dimapur is the only city in Nagaland where all Naga communities coexist, and emphasised the need to uphold mutual respect and brotherhood. It cautioned against individuals taking the law into their own hands or setting up “kangaroo courts,” stating that such actions undermine the rule of law and the judiciary. The council extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family of late Mhathung Lotha and wished a speedy recovery to Chonben Kikon, who was also injured in the incident.
ASTD: Ao Senso Telongjem Dimapur (ASTD) has in a condemnation note by its president Ningsangwaba Pongen and general secretary K. Tsukti Longchar, termed the incident as inhumane and deeply alarming, stating that such acts wound the spirit of brotherhood and disrupt peaceful coexistence. “No difference, dispute or disagreement can ever justify the taking of an innocent life,” the statement read, noting that taking the law into one’s own hands contradicts the values of fairness, morality and humanity.
ASTD urged the police and concerned authorities to conduct a swift and impartial investigation and ensure that all responsible are brought to justice without delay. It further stated that the perpetrators must face the full force of the law to serve as a deterrent.
The organisation called on society to treat the incident as a wake-up call to uphold humanity, justice and compassion above anger and impulse. ASTD extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family of late Mhathung and offered prayers for the full recovery of Chonben Kikon.
DSC: Dimapur Sumi Council (DSC) also condemned the incident in the strongest terms, describing it as senseless and deeply disturbing. In a condolence message, DSC stated that the attack, which claimed the life of Mhathung Lotha of Yimpang village and severely injured his friend Chonben Kikon, has caused immense grief to the victim’s family and loved ones.
DSC appealed to all residents to not view the incident through communal lenses and expressed confidence that law enforcement agencies would take appropriate action and deliver justice. The council lauded the mature response of Dimapur Nkonjan Yimpang Ekhung Chairman, Nzanbemo Patton, for choosing restraint and allowing the law to take its course. It stated that such leadership is needed in today’s society, where frequent incidents threaten unity and fraternity. DSC reiterated that violent acts are unacceptable and violate the principles of justice, human rights, and dignity. It extended deepest sympathy to the family and relatives of the deceased.
CLH: In a statement, the Chümoukedima Lotha Hoho (CLH) unequivocally condemned the act as inhuman and unacceptable in a society that upholds peace, dignity and respect for human life. It stated that violence and crime fundamentally contradict the teachings of Christ and urged citizens to reject violence in all forms, embracing the values of a civilized and God-fearing society.
The Hoho expressed full faith in the Dimapur Police to conduct an impartial and professional investigation, and in the judiciary to deliver justice. It extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family of late Mhathung Lotha and offered prayers for strength, comfort and healing. The organisation also wished for the speedy recovery of Chonben Kikon and prayed for his complete healing.
BCLYO: Burma Camp Lotha Youth Organization (BCLYO) has expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as a heinous and inhumane act that has no place in a civilized society. The organization affirmed its stand against any form of violence and those who seek to disrupt the harmony of the community.
BCLYO urged law enforcement authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that those responsible are held accountable and brought to justice without delay, so that the bereaved family receives the justice they deserve.
The organization extended heartfelt condolences to the family of late Mhathung and offered sincere prayers for the speedy recovery of Chonben. It also appealed to the youth and wider community to remain united, vigilant, and cooperative during this difficult time, and to work collectively toward restoring peace and order.
CLSU: Chümoukedima Lotha Students’ Union (CLSU), in a release, stated that the assault reflected a complete disregard for human life and the rule of law. Mhathung’s death due to grievous injuries was described as an irreparable loss that has sent shockwaves of grief and indignation throughout the Lotha community and student fraternity. CLSU condemned the alleged perpetrators—Bokuga, his wife Alung, and unnamed accomplices—in the strongest possible terms, calling the act cold-blooded and unforgivable. The union also expressed outrage over the subsequent intimidation of the bereaved family, describing it as a “sickening act of criminal cruelty” and a violation of moral and legal norms. The union demanded immediate and decisive action from law enforcement and the State Government, calling for a zero-tolerance policy and a swift, thorough, and time-bound investigation. CLSU also urged authorities to ensure transparency and impartiality in the judicial process, and called for immediate security measures to protect the bereaved family. It further appealed for adequate ex-gratia compensation and extended unwavering solidarity with the family, vowing to pursue justice until all perpetrators face the full force of the law.