ZPD candlelight vigil for 6 slain Nagas calls for justice, unity

DIMAPUR, JUL 17 (NPN): A candlelight vigil organised by Zeliangrong Public Dimapur (ZPD) was held at Super Market area Dimapur on Friday evening in memory of the six Naga civilians who were abducted and later killed in Manipur. Representatives of various Naga tribal organisations, church bodies, civil society organisations and members of the public attended the programme, calling for justice, unity and lasting peace.
Held under the theme “In Remembrance of the Six Nagas Abducted and Murdered”, the programme began with an invocation by Zeliangrong Baptist Church, Dimapur pastor Rev. Peuhau N. Hau, followed by an incident brief by organising committee member Raymond Chawang.
In his address, Raymond recounted the circumstances surrounding the May 13, 2026 incident, stating that the victims were among a group of civilians returning from a wedding and a local market when they were intercepted in Manipur. He also referred to a final video call allegedly made by one of the victims warning others not to travel along the same route, which he said helped save additional lives.
Stressing that the gathering was not merely to mourn the victims but to seek justice, he urged Nagas to remain united and called upon the authorities to bring those responsible to justice, stating that “justice delayed is justice denied.”
A tribute video in memory of the six victims was screened before representatives of various organisations delivered solidarity messages.
Speaking on behalf of Naga Council Dimapur, president G.K. Rengma said the tragedy should remind all Nagas to remain united beyond tribal differences. He described the vigil as a symbol of hope, remembrance and collective strength, and urged the governments of Manipur and India to restore peace, ensure the safety of civilians and expedite justice through due process of law.
Naga Women Hoho Dimapur joint secretary Khriezovonuo Zumvu condemned the killings and expressed solidarity with the bereaved families. She said no conflict or ideology could justify violence against innocent civilians and stressed that justice must be pursued through truth, accountability and the rule of law rather than revenge.
She also encouraged the younger generation to reject hatred and uphold human dignity.
Eastern Nagaland People’s Union Dimapur (ENPUD) president Thamlong Phom appealed to Nagas to rise above tribal divisions, saying unity remained the community’s greatest strength. He informed the gathering that a memorandum addressed to the Prime Minister of India had been prepared with the support of various tribal organisations in Dimapur, seeking justice over the incident.
Representing Tenyimi Union Dimapur, president Thepfuneituo Rio expressed grief over the killings and urged the Manipur government and the Centre to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure exemplary punishment for those found responsible. He reiterated the union’s commitment to peace while cautioning that justice should not be delayed.
On behalf of the Western Sumi Hoho, secretary Inaka Achumi described the killings as a barbaric act that had no place in a civilised society. While extending condolences to the bereaved families, he appealed to the Zeliangrong community to continue pursuing peace and justice without allowing hatred to prevail, assuring the organisation’s solidarity in every lawful effort to secure justice.
Ao Senso Telongjem Dimapur president Ningsangwaba termed the incident a crime against humanity and called upon Nagas to unite in seeking justice and safeguarding the rights and dignity of their people.
Lotha Hoho Dimapur president T. Lotha also condemned the killings and appealed for calm while urging the authorities to expedite the investigation and bring those responsible to justice. He conveyed condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for peace and comfort during their time of grief.
Zeliang Women Organisation Dimapur president I Ramlia thanked the various tribal bodies, organisations and individuals for standing in solidarity with the Zeliangrong community. She said the overwhelming support had brought comfort to the grieving families and appealed to the authorities to ensure timely justice, stating that justice remained essential for lasting peace and the prevention of future violence.
Nagaland Joint Christian Forum (NJCF) president Rev. Dr. N. Paphino also expressed deep sorrow over the killings, extended condolences to the bereaved families, condemned all forms of violence and appealed for peace, healing and reconciliation while assuring continued prayers and support.
A special tribute song was presented, followed by the lighting of candles and a moment of silence in memory of the victims. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by the organising committee and a benediction.
Throughout the programme, speakers condemned the killing of the six Liangmai Naga civilians, expressed solidarity with the bereaved families and called for unity among Nagas while urging the authorities to ensure a fair investigation and bring those responsible to justice in accordance with the law. Participants also reaffirmed their commitment to peace, justice and unity.