The Dimapur Ao Youth Organisation (DAYO) has condemned the extortion incident carried out by cadres of the NSCN-K (Khango) group against a Lotha Naga entrepreneur in Purana Bazar, Dimapur, on February 4, 2025. In a statement, the organization called the act “cowardly” and expressed deep concern over the threats it posed to the safety and livelihoods of local entrepreneurs.
“Such despicable acts not only threatens the safety and livelihood of hardworking individuals but also undermine the spirit of entrepreneurship and self-reliance among the Naga people,” DAYO stated in its condemnation.
The organization voiced its support for the Dimapur Lotha Youth Organisation (DLYO) in denouncing this blatant intimidation.
“The repeated targeting of local entrepreneurs by armed groups is totally unacceptable and must be brought to an immediate halt. These groups, under the guise of political struggle, have instead become stumbling blocks to progress, preventing dedicated and rising entrepreneurs from contributing to the economic development of our state,” it stated.
DAYO urged the Ceasefire Monitoring Cell to take “urgent and decisive” action to rein in the NSCN-K (Khango) group and ensure that such criminal activities do not recur.
“If the ceasefire mechanism is to hold any credibility, it must ensure that armed groups strictly adhere to the Ceasefire Ground Rules and refrain from unlawful activities, especially extortion and harassment of our people,” it added.
“We demand justice, accountability, and the protection of our people from such lawless elements,” the statement read.
Tia Longchar, the President of DAYO, and Imkongsungkum, Convenor of the Grievance Cell of DAYO, reaffirmed their commitment to standing with Naga entrepreneurs, who they believe are vital to the development of the region. They also called on civil society organizations and the general public to join in the effort to denounce such oppressive acts.
“We will not remain silent in the face of such injustices,” said the statement.