WOKHA, AUGUST 27 (MExN): The Ralan Area Baptist Churches Union (RABCU) and Western Sümi Hoho (WSH) have condemned the alleged assault of Rhanlamo Kikon, the pastor of Yanpha Baptist Church, on August 24 in Naukhuti Town.
The pastor was reportedly assaulted by a cadre of the NSCN-K (Khango) group identified as Akhekevi from Kiyezhu 'B' Village.
In its condemnation note, the RABCU expressed “shock and deep concern over the assault and attempted murder” of the pastor without any provocation. It described the act as intolerable and unrighteous, disrespecting the sanctity of religious leaders. The Union also expressed dismay over the ‘rising insecurity’ even for religious leaders in the state, terming it a “deeply unfortunate development.”
Accordingly, the RABCU urged all right-thinking citizens to stand against the growing unrighteousness and hatred troubling society and called on all citizens to denounce such inhumane acts and work towards the well-being of the community. It further urged all right-thinking citizens to refrain from engaging in such acts of violence.
Meanwhile, WSH condemned the alleged physical assault as “heinous” and stated that the brutal act of violence underscores the urgent need to address lawlessness and impunity. “We demand robust action, with exemplary punishment for the perpetrator, to uphold justice and maintain social order,” it said.
The WSH also expressed appreciation to the NSCN-K (Khango) for promptly acting in apprehending the culprit and handing him over to the authorities, as well as Kiyezhu 'B' Village's decision to outcast the perpetrator.
“Let us unite in our resolve to eradicate this culture of violence and intimidation, recognizing that criminality knows no boundaries,” it urged. “We share a collective responsibility to bring perpetrators to justice, upholding the principles of harmony, dignity, and the rule of law,” it added.
Sharing its sympathy and prayers with the victim, the WSH also wished Kikon a speedy recovery.
