Public outrage is growing in Nagaland following the death of Mhathung Lotha of Yimpang village, who reportedly died after being assaulted twice during an altercation at Naga Colony, Burma Camp, Dimapur.
According to reports, a confrontation broke out on the night of November 11 between two groups, which escalated into physical violence. Mhathung, who sustained serious injuries during the brawl, was admitted to the hospital for treatment. However, in a disturbing turn of events, he was allegedly coerced to leave the hospital and return home under threats and intimidation from the other party. His wife, Noline, reportedly pleaded that he was unfit to move, but was compelled to bring him home. Mhathung was again assaulted upon arrival and forced to sign documents under duress. He succumbed to his injuries the following day.
The Western Sumi Youth Front (WSYF) said it was “deeply appalled and outraged” by what it called an “inhuman and senseless act,” adding that such brutality “has no place in a civilized society.”
The WSYF further noted that the assault was compounded by the “reckless attempt” to drag the names of multiple tribes into a personal dispute, warning that such actions were divisive and dangerous. The youth front demanded that law enforcement take immediate action and also called for clarity over reports that the victims were threatened with being taken to a “camp,” stating that if such references involved underground groups, the matter must be investigated with urgency.
The Western Sumi Hoho (WSH) expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as “a tragic and senseless loss of life.” The apex body appealed to all concerned not to view the case through tribal lines, emphasizing that it was a conflict between individuals and should not be allowed to sow division. It also acknowledged the response of Dimapur Nkonjan Yimpang Chairman, Nzanbemo Patton, who chose to let the law take its course rather than retaliate. The WSH said such restraint reflected “the true spirit of Christianity and peace,” urging all citizens to emulate this example.
The Dimapur Lotha Students’ Union (DLSU) also condemned the incident, calling it “a grave disgrace to humanity.” The union expressed concern that the bereaved family was reportedly subjected to further trauma, including intimidation, the imposition of a fine, and another physical assault on Chonben Kikon, a friend of the deceased, who remains hospitalized. The DLSU stressed that “no reason or justification can validate such violence” and urged the competent authorities to ensure that all those responsible are brought to justice without delay.
Similarly, the Western Naga Youth Front (WNYF) expressed its “strongest condemnation” of the killing, describing it as a reflection of “an alarming collapse of law and order in society.” The WNYF stated that initial police arrests were a step forward but insufficient, claiming that multiple individuals were involved in the attack based on accounts from the victim’s wife and call records.
It urged authorities to investigate every person implicated, including those accused of intimidation and coercion, and warned that “partial justice will provoke social unrest.”
According to Dimapur Police update, six individuals have been arrested in connection with the case. However, civil organizations maintain that others involved remain at large and have called for a thorough and impartial investigation.