Northeast Desk, 27th August: The violent attack on Pastor Rhanlamo Kikon by NSCN (Khango) cadre Akhekivi on August 24 has ignited widespread condemnation across Nagaland, with various organizations demanding swift justice and accountability.
The Lotha Baptist Churches’ Association (LBCA) expressed deep shock and outrage, condemning the attack as “barbaric” and “heinous.” Rev. Khonbemo P Kikon, LBCA’s executive secretary, highlighted the disturbing rise in violence within Naga society, calling for collective action to ensure justice and safety. He urged law enforcement agencies to act promptly against the perpetrator, stressing that such acts are intolerable in a civilized community.
Echoing these sentiments, the Dimapur Lotha Youth Organisation (DLYO) condemned the assault, emphasizing that it violated the fundamental rights and dignity of the pastor. The DLYO urged the national workers involved to reflect on their actions and refocus on the true aspirations of the Naga people. The organization demanded that NSCN/GPRN (Khango) take immediate steps to prevent future incidents, while expressing their support for Pastor Kikon and his family.
In a strong statement, the Aghunaqa Kukami Kuqhakulu (AKK) G.B’s Association, led by President Heshito Awomi and General Secretary Mughato Zhimo, denounced the attack as “unacceptable and intolerable.” The AKK reiterated its “zero tolerance” policy towards violence and pledged full cooperation with law enforcement to hold the perpetrators accountable. The association also clarified that the incident occurred in Toku Town (Naukhuti), Niuland district, Nagaland, correcting earlier reports that mistakenly identified the location as being in Assam.
The Ralan Area Students’ Union (RASU) and Yanpha Students’ Union (YSU) joined the chorus of condemnation, demanding severe punishment for the attacker and calling on the community to unite against such violence. Both unions expressed solidarity with the victim and his family, urging immediate and decisive action from authorities.
Lotha Linhyang also condemned the assault, describing it as “senseless” and “malicious.” The organization called on the Niuland district administration to take strong measures and support the Yanpha Village Council’s demand for justice.
As Nagaland grapples with the aftermath of this brutal attack, the outcry for justice continues to grow, with communities and organizations standing in solidarity against violence and advocating for the safety and dignity of all citizens.
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