KOHIMA — One of
the most vocal anti-corruption crusaders of recent years in Nagaland,
Kezhokhoto Savi, an advocate and assistant professor at Kohima Law College,
passed away on Friday at a private hospital in Kohima after a prolonged
illness.
Until his passing, Savi was the president of the Nagaland
Voluntary Consumer Organisation (NVCO). He was also a central figure in the
anti-corruption movement—led by Against Corruption and Unabated Taxation
(ACAUT) Nagaland—that had emerged a decade ago.
The association remained till his last breath: Savi was
serving as the convenor of ACAUT Nagaland’s legal cell.
Savi graduated with a law degree from Delhi University and
was once the president of the Angami Students’ Union (ASU); a Rotarian, he also
served the Kohima Rotary Club as its president.
His contributions to the legal fraternity and unwavering
commitment to protecting consumer rights have earned him widespread recognition
across the state. He was a National Award recipient for Consumer Protection.
As president of NVCO, Savi was instrumental in championing
consumer awareness campaigns and holding public and private entities
accountable for fair practices.
His efforts significantly impacted consumer education and
the enforcement of rights in Nagaland.
At Kohima Law College, Savi played a pivotal role in shaping
the next generation of legal professionals, emphasising the importance of law
as a tool for justice and social equity.
He was also instrumental in establishing Lokayukta, the
anti-corruption ombudsman, in Nagaland; minimising backdoor appointments and
illegal taxation; highlighting dozens of illegal practices; and keeping the
government accountable.
It was informed that his mortal remains will be transported
from his residence at Lower Chandmari in Kohima at 9 am on Saturday to Ze-Naki
ground at Jakhama, his native village, where a funeral is scheduled to be held
at 12 noon.
