Thousands join candlelight vigil in Kohima demanding justice for Vihozhonu Zao

KOHIMA — Thousands of people gathered at the candlelight vigil for Vihozhonu Zao at PHQ Junction, Kohima, on Friday as the demand for justice grew louder across Nagaland.

Vihozhonu Zao, a 22-year-old recent graduate and basketball player, was allegedly murdered, and her body was found on October 25 near her residence. The incident has since sparked outrage across the state, with citizens condemning the inhuman act and vowing not to remain silent until justice is delivered.

The Kohima Police have registered an FIR and formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the matter. However, no further details have been made available as the investigation is in progress.

Meanwhile, separate candlelight vigils were held by the basketball community, sympathisers, and her village.

On Friday evening, PHQ Junction was packed as young and old, students and youth, friends and family members of Vihozhonu Zao held a lit candle each to remember her and unitedly vowed to fight for justice.

Also read: North East Network, Nagaland Volleyball Association condemn murder of Vihozhonu Zao

An elderly man representing the family said that Zao, being a bright child, had inspired high hopes, but her life was cut short by the tragic incident, which has left the family deeply saddened. He added that the family was overwhelmed by the love and support shown by thousands of people and expressed gratitude to everyone for standing by them in their time of grief and tragedy.

A representative from the Jakhama Women Society expressed hope that the truth would come out. She added that punishing the culprit(s) alone would be incomplete justice and urged every family, parent, and child to reflect on themselves. “Vihozhonu's case is everyone's case, and each family must reflect on their relationships and try to improve them,” she said.

She added that the candlelight vigil must not be the last but a light to the darkness of the world, inspiring people to fight against the darkness of life.

Kenilo Kent, general secretary of the Naga Students’ Federation, said such an act of brutality against an innocent young life was a grave assault on the very fabric of humanity and a painful reminder of the growing moral decay in society.

The federation called upon the competent authorities to initiate an immediate, thorough, and impartial investigation into the case and to ensure that the perpetrator(s) of the crime are brought to justice without delay or leniency.

Justice must not only be delivered but also reaffirm society's trust in the rule of law and deter future acts of such violence, he added.

Angami Women Organisation General Secretary Atono Kense said they had met with Kohima Police and urged them to expedite the investigation and ensure befitting punishment for the culprits if caught. She encouraged the gathering to let the candle in their hands continue to burn until justice is delivered.

Angami Youth Organisation President Kesosul Christopher Ltu said they had faith in the SIT formed by Kohima Police and hoped justice would be served. However, he warned that justice delayed would be justice denied, adding that the youth body would not remain a mute spectator if justice was delayed.

Angami Students’ Union President Diezevisie Nakhro called on the authorities to ensure accountability and guarantee safety for all students and the community at large. The union urged the authorities concerned to take befitting action against the culprit if caught.

He added that Zao’s dreams must not die with her and that they would keep her memory alive through their voices, actions, and shared commitment to peace and justice.

Southern Angami Youth Organisation President Zasitsolie Beio noted that everyone has the right to live, and such an outrageous act is an insult to the entire Naga society. He called for greater awareness of human rights and indigenous rights and for protecting them wherever possible. He added that while Kohima has been tagged as the safest city in the country, such an incident is a shame for the government.

A representative from the Southern Angami Students’ Union called upon the people to raise their voices against such injustice and said this was not a moment for silence. The representative further challenged the government to upgrade the system rather than hide behind the curtain.

Peter Vizo, president of the St Joseph’s College (Autonomous) Alumni Association, mentioned that Zao graduated from the college this year and was among the toppers in the Economics Department.

Strongly condemning the murder, he appealed to the state government and authorities to expedite the investigation and let justice prevail.

Various other organisations, bodies, and groups also extended their solidarity and condemned the horrific act.