Northeast Desk, 25th August: The Lotha Students’ Union (LSU) has strongly condemned the brutal physical assault on Rhanlamo Kikon, a pastor of the Yanpha Baptist Church in Naukhuti Town, on August 24. The union is demanding immediate government intervention and the implementation of strict policies to prevent such heinous acts from occurring in the future.
The attack, reportedly carried out by a cadre of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN) Khango faction, has shocked the community. The assailant, identified as Akhekevi, son of Ahovi from Kiyezhu B village, allegedly attacked Pastor Kikon without any provocation, with the intent to kill. The premeditated nature of the assault, which involved point-blank pistol firing, has drawn widespread outrage.
In a statement, the LSU termed the act as “abhorrent,” emphasizing that it not only violated the fundamental rights and dignity of the victim but also reflected a grave disregard for the sanctity and well-being of a spiritual leader. The union called for immediate and stringent action against the perpetrator, urging the authorities to ensure that justice is served.
“Every individual deserves to live in an environment free from fear, exploitation, and harm,” the LSU stated. “Any form of abuse is utterly reprehensible, and we demand that those responsible be held accountable for their actions.”
The LSU also called on the NSCN/GPRN (Khango) faction to disown and refrain from enrolling individuals who display unpatriotic and mentally unstable behavior, warning that failure to do so would tarnish the faction’s image and could lead to non-cooperation from the community.
The union extended its solidarity and support to Pastor Kikon and his family, pledging to stand by them in their pursuit of justice. They also appealed to the public to join them in condemning this atrocity and demanding accountability from those responsible.
“The LSU urges all right-thinking citizens to unite against this brutal act and to demand that such heinous deeds be eradicated from our society,” the statement concluded.