Hundreds of people gathered at PHQ Junction, Kohima on Friday evening for the candlelight vigil, organised by the Jakhama Village Council, which saw citizens come together in grief, solidarity and a shared demand for justice.
Hundreds light candles for young athlete, seeks justice
Morung Express News
Kohima | October 31
Hundreds of people gathered at PHQ Junction, Kohima, this evening to take part in a solemn candlelight vigil in memory of a 22-year-old athlete, whose tragic and untimely death on October 25 has sent shockwaves across Nagaland.
The vigil, organised by the Jakhama Village Council, saw citizens from all walks of life come together in grief, solidarity and a shared demand for justice.
Representatives from various organisations, including the Jakhama Village Council, Jakhama Women Society, Angami Youth Organisation (AYO), Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO), Southern Angami Students’ Union (SASU), Naga Students’ Federation (NSF), Angami Students Union (ASU), Angami Women Organisation (AWO), Josephite Alumni and others delivered messages calling for accountability, moral awakening and systemic reform.
Terming the act “a grave assault on the very fabric of our humanity” and “a painful reminder of the growing moral decay in society”, the Federation called upon the competent authorities to conduct an immediate, thorough, and impartial investigation, asserting that justice must not only be delivered but must also reaffirm the people’s faith in the rule of law.
It further appealed to the public to uphold peace and solidarity while continuing to demand justice for the young woman, reiterating its commitment to safeguard the dignity and safety of every individual and to continue its fight against all forms of violence and injustice.
AYO President, Kesosül Christopher Ltu stressed that any crime in the society must not be tolerated under any circumstances, urging the youth to stand united “until justice is delivered.”
Stating that it is “a shame to the government when Nagaland is declared the safest place for women” SAYO called for introspection and accountability while reminding the safety of each person should be a lived reality.
Mourning the loss of “one of the brightest students,” SASU questioned the moral degradation of the society that calls itself “Nagaland for Christ” while failing to ensure women’s safety.
“Our women can’t walk home safely. Families mourn while justice is not delivered,” it stated and urged for justice. He also asserted that when the perpetrator (s) is not punished “we are moulding them to be braver to commit more crimes in the future. We cannot let that happen.”
He went on to state that the issue is not only about one victim, but about humanity and creating a place where people don’t have to live in fear.
Calling for accountability and to guarantee safety for all students and community at large, ASU stated that it will keep her memory alive through its voices, actions and shared commitment to peace and justice.
