NAWO holds protest rally against rape, murder attempt

Thousands of women led by Northern Angami Women Organisation (NAWO) took to the streets of Kohima Saturday to condemn the alleged rape and murder attempt on a mother of four at Botsa village on July 16, 2025.
The accused, identified as one Khrietuolie Kense (19), of Tsiemekhuma Basa village, allegedly attacked the woman on July 16 while she was returning from her field. According to NAWO, the victim suffered multiple injuries including stab wounds on her wrist, finger, and neck, as well as bruises on her knee and back.
The protest rally, which began from Razhü Point and culminated at the Deputy Commissioner’s office, saw thousands of participants—many of them clad in traditional Naga attire—carrying placards some of which read, “We demand justice for the victim” and “We condemn this immoral act.” At DC’s office, NAWO submitted a memorandum demanding “swift and uncompromising legal action” against the accused, including denial of bail.
Addressing the media, NAWO president Kedisenuo Keditsu stated that the accused was unfit to exist in a civilised society. She remarked that the organisation would not remain silent if such acts were repeated in the future. NAWO president warned that further inaction could lead to larger youth-led protests.
Asked whether the accused was a repeated offender, Keditsu alleged that the accused had been involved in other similar incidents in the past. However, she said that lack of formal complaints and reluctance of victims to come forward had hindered legal proceedings.
Describing the survivor’s condition as “pathetic”, Keditsu said that while her external injuries were grave, the psychological trauma was far worse.
According to her, the manner in which the victim was attacked suggested an intention to render her unconscious.
During a short ceremony held prior to the rally, Prof. Rosemary Dzüvichü, advisor to the Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA), described the day as “a day of shame.” She said that the incident did not reflect Naga values, which had traditionally respected women. Dzüvichü questioned the silence of state authorities, including the Governor, in the wake of rising cases of gender-based violence. She called upon mothers to instil respect for women in their sons.
Also, addressing the gathering, Northern Angami Public Organisation (NAPO) president Keduo Zumu, warned that the community would be compelled to take action according to customary laws that if legal justice was not delivered. He emphasised that no woman should have to live in fear and called for collective condemnation of such acts.
Angami Women Organisation (AWO) president Neithono Sothu said the attack had inflicted lifelong trauma on the survivor. She also demanded strict legal punishment for the accused. Sothu urged the society to take collective responsibility in supporting the victim and preventing future crimes.
Meanwhile, Northern Angami Youth Organisation (NAYO) president Khriesazo Liezietsu challenged men to reflect on their roles in protecting women. He warned that if the law failed, men should be prepared to intervene to resolve the matter.
Botsa village chairman, in his remarks, lauded the women for standing up against such violence and expressed hope that the protest would serve as a strong message for future generations.