Nagaland Nov 9 case: Lotha organizations demand justice; 6 held

Several Lotha organisations have expressed deep concern and condemnation over the November 9 assault incident, which led to the death of a 32-year-old member of the community.
According to an update from Dimapur police, six persons have been arrested in connection with the case.
The Lotha bodies have urged law enforcement authorities to ensure that those responsible were brought to justice and called for greater public awareness on legal and peaceful conflict resolution.
Addressing media at the East Police Station here Thursday, Dimapur Lotha Students’ Union (DLSU) president Chumren Humtsoe lauded Dimapur police for their swift response to the November 9 incident and demanded that the case be pursued with utmost seriousness.
Humtsoe said the union had met the investigation officer and appealed for early and fair justice. DLSU president cautioned the public not to create any communal tension over the issue. “Justice must be delivered in a fair and transparent manner,” he said.
Further, he affirmed that DLSU would continue to monitor and maintain pressure on the authorities until justice is served. “If we find anyone involved, we will not remain silent. We will continue to press the police to take necessary action,” Humtsoe asserted.
White Snuggling Society (WiSE) chairperson DM Lotha expressed sorrow over the loss of community member calling it an “unfortunate and preventable tragedy.”
She pointed out that the incident could have been avoided if both parties involved had acted responsibly. “If the parties had first called the police control room or informed the village council instead of resorting to mob actions or personal judgments, the situation could have been controlled,” she observed.
She also stressed that no individual or group has the right to impose fines or punishment outside the law. “Such acts amount to extortion under Section 384 of the IPC and criminal intimidation under Section 506.
Justice must be handled by lawful authorities, not individuals acting on impulse,” she said.
Lotha appealed to the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) and the social welfare department to extend assistance to the widow and her child. “We request that all school and college fees for the child be waived. I also appeal to NGOs and like-minded societies to reach out through the Child Welfare Office and Social Welfare Department to ensure proper support for the family,” she said.
Lotha further highlighted the need for legal awareness and education among youth.
Dimapur Lotha Hoho (DLH) led by its president Thunchangthung Murry, also condemned the incident and called it a “shameful act that has no place in a civilized society.” The Hoho extended condolences to the bereaved family and urged the police to expedite their investigation to ensure justice is served.
The organizations have underscored that such incidents reflected the urgent need for greater legal literacy, responsible citizenship, and community solidarity. They also called upon all sections of society to uphold peace, law, and unity while ensuring that justice prevails.