Dimapur joins statewide vigils, demanding justice for six Naga civilians abducted and killed in Manipur's Kangpokpi district.
DIMAPUR — Braving humid weather and swarms of mosquitoes, hundreds of people gathered at Supermarket (Naga Shopping Arcade) in Dimapur on Friday evening for a candlelight vigil organised by the Zeliangrong Public Dimapur, mourning the six Naga civilians abducted and killed in Manipur's Kangpokpi district while calling for justice, peace and Naga unity.
Holding candles and placards, participants observed a solemn tribute to the victims before community leaders urged the government of India to ensure swift justice and prevent such incidents from recurring. The vigil was the third of its kind in Nagaland after similar programmes in Peren and Kohima.
Addressing the gathering, Naga Women Hoho joint secretary Khriezoronuo Zumvu said the vigil was not merely about lighting candles but sharing the immeasurable grief of the bereaved families.
Describing the killings as an attack on humanity, she urged people to remain united and courageous, saying truth and justice could never be silenced and that those responsible must be held accountable under the law.
Eastern Nagaland People's Union Dimapur president Thamlong Phom termed the killings "one of the most barbaric acts" in recent times and called for the immediate arrest of those responsible. Stressing the need for unity, he said tribal identities should strengthen rather than divide the Naga community.
He also suggested that Dimapur-based organisations jointly submit a memorandum to the government of India seeking justice for the victims.
Tenyimi Union Dimapur president Thepfuneituo Rio urged the government of India to ensure the immediate arrest of the perpetrators, warning that any delay in delivering justice could further aggravate the situation. Addressing the Kuki community, he said the Tenyimi people stood for peace, harmony and kindness but cautioned that their patience should not be mistaken for weakness.
Condemning the killings, Western Sumi Hoho general secretary V Anoka described the incident as unacceptable in any civilised society and remarked that "in war, only humanity loses." He appealed for peace and urged communities not to judge entire groups by the actions of a few individuals.
Echoing similar sentiments, Ao Senso Telongjem Dimapur president Ningsangrenba said the tragedy should serve as a reminder for Nagas to stand together in the pursuit of justice.
Lotha Hoho Dimapur chairman T Lotha described the killings as an affront to humanity and said the images of the victims had left the community heartbroken and outraged. While demanding justice, he appealed for restraint and urged the authorities to allow the law to take its course.
Naga Council Dimapur president GK Rengma said the tragedy underscored the need for Nagas to speak with one voice for justice and security. He urged the governments of India and Manipur to restore peace in the affected areas and ensure the perpetrators were brought to justice without delay.
Recalling the historical relationship between Nagas and Kukis, Rengma alleged that the Naga community's generosity had not been reciprocated. He maintained that the candlelight vigil symbolised the collective resolve of the Naga people to continue seeking justice for the victims.
The vigil concluded with participants reaffirming their commitment to peace while demanding accountability for the killings and justice for the bereaved families.