Pimla murder case: Indefinite shutdown in Peren district begins on August 19

DIMAPUR — The Zeliangrong Youth Organisation Nagaland (ZYON), Zeliangrong Students’ Union Nagaland (ZSUN), and Zeliangrong Mipui Organisation (ZMO) will launch the second phase of their indefinite “aggressive agitation” from 10 am on August 19 across Peren district.

The decision follows what the groups termed the failure of Nagaland government and law enforcement agencies to deliver justice in the April 7 Pimla murder case, in which a woman’s body was found between Mhaikam and Pimla village.

The agitation, which the organisations described as an expression of resentment against the delay in justice, includes a total shutdown of government offices—from the district administration down to subordinate offices—and a ban on government vehicle movement. National Highway-129A and interstate routes will also remain closed.

ZYON president R John Zeliang said that the agitation will be monitored by civil society organisations (CSOs) across the district and will continue until the government, law enforcement, and relevant departments provide progress on the forensic report and ensure justice.

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He clarified that while administrative vehicles are exempted, other government-registered vehicles will be barred. Unlike the earlier phase of agitation, confiscated vehicles will not be released, he warned, adding that violators will face action. Transportation to Manipur will also be suspended until the demands are addressed.

“We’ll maintain peace during this agitation, but if met with aggression, we’ll respond with double the force,” Zeliang said. He also warned that the ZYON, ZSUN, ZMO, and citizens of Peren district will not be held accountable if anything happens to the prime accused, who is currently out on bail.

During a press conference on August 14 in Dimapur, the Zeliangrong bodies had stated they would hold no further meetings with the state government or law enforcement agencies while setting August 19 as the deadline for action. They also warned that if this phase of agitation fails to yield justice, they will escalate their protest, including shutting down the office of the commissioner of police with support from other Naga stakeholders.

Exemptions 

Exemptions from the shutdown include the Health department, schools and colleges, paramilitary forces, fire and emergency services, and field-duty staff of the Power department, though offices will remain closed.

Meanwhile, the Zeliangrong bodies have appealed to citizens, especially women, to participate in the agitation in traditional attire. “This fight is not just for the Zeliangrong community, but for women’s safety,” Zeliang said, stressing that participation is voluntary.