Multiple organizations have issued strong condemnations following a recent death threat from the NSCN-K (Khango) group against a prominent member of the Angami community. The Rengma Selo Zi (RSZ), Northern Angami Students’ Union (NASU), and Chakhesang Youth Front (CYF) have all criticized the threat, describing it as a grave act of intimidation and violence.
Rengma Solo Zi (RSZ): The RSZ expressed profound distress over the threat of capital punishment issued by NSCN-K (Khango) against the Angami citizen. In a statement, RSZ condemned the act, stating that such intimidation undermines the unity and peace that the Nagas strive to achieve. The organization commended the Angami Youth Organization (AYO) for its courageous response, calling it a testament to their principles and a source of inspiration for those committed to justice and the rule of law.
“The RSZ reiterates our support for the principle of One Government – One Taxation as a crucial step towards achieving lasting peace and unity among the Naga people,” spokesperson for RN David Magh, president of RSZ.
“At this critical juncture, when solidarity and mutual support are paramount, it is imperative to discourage ultimatums or divisive actions that threaten communal harmony. We urge all factions and organizations to engage in constructive dialogue and cooperation to foster an environment of understanding and respect.”
Northern Angami Students’ Union (NASU): The NASU also voiced strong support for the AYO and Kezhaleo Rülho, the individual targeted by the death threat. NASU condemned such acts of “cowardness” by the “so-called Nation-worker (Naga army) NSCN-(K) Khango group.”
“When as Naga we are fighting our way towards peace, harmony and progress, amidst such uncalled threatening of life towards a reputed Contractor, a God fearing man and a cheerful social figure shall never be accepted in a civilised society, such act has physically paralyzed and mentally tortured Mr Rülho extensively,” NASU stated.
As a concerned student organization, NASU pledged to continue its efforts to protect, promote, and pursue the well-being of its citizens. They vowed to stand firm against elements that seek to disrupt peaceful coexistence.
Chakhesang Youth Front (CYF): The CYF condemned the NSCN-K (Khango) threat, emphasizing that capital punishment is “non-existent” in the Naga society, adding that the CYF shall “never tolerate such foreign threats that impugns the very fabric of our culture”. The CYF affirmed their support to AYO in its stand for justice.
The CYF reminded that the formation of CYF was necessitated in 1995 to protect the community leaders against the capital punishment which was ordered on a number of their prominent leaders at the time, and the assassination of nationalist leader late General Povezo Soho. “As such, the CYF shall never remain a mute spectator to threats that hamper peace in our society,” the CYF added.
“The CYF is distressed to learn that at a juncture when the Nagas need to be showing solidarity to one another, ultimatums spawned from greed continue to expose how hollow our national movement has become,” it continued.
“The CYF condemns such undesirable acts and stands by AYO. While applauding the courage of the AYO in standing up to the bullies, the CYF urges every right thinking citizen to stand by their decision, so that we can overcome such menace in our society.”