‘Naga political movement is a breeding ground for corruption’

Public rally in Wokha town protest against physical assault, illegal taxation and threat to common people

Morung Express News
Wokha | September 3

A public rally was held today at Police Point, Clock Tower, Wokha Town, organized by the Lotha Youth Hoho under the aegis of the Lotha Hoho. The rally was convened to address multiple urgent issues including the physical assault and attempted murder of Rhanlamo Kikon, Pastor of Yanpha Baptist Church, on August 24 by a cadre of NSCN-K (Khango).

The event also addressed widespread concerns over illegal taxation, harassment, intimidation, and threats faced by the common people.

Addressing the gathering, Limhathung N Yanthan, President of the Lotha Youth Hoho, commended the community for their strong turnout at the rally, which demonstrated their unity. He condemned the August 24 attack on the Pastor of Yanpha Baptist Church, describing it as an attempted murder and unwarranted physical assault. Ezung stated that the rally reflected the Lotha community’s profound resentment and served as a stand against illegal taxation, extortion, threats, and intimidation. He declared that the Lothas would not support any faction involved in such activities.

Additionally, he addressed the Heads of Departments (HODs) under Wokha District, urging them to be vigilant and present in their offices rather than attending only the DPDP meetings. He emphasized that the absence of HODs from their offices causes significant inconvenience to the public, leading to both financial and physical hardships. He requested that the HODs ensure their presence at their stations or face action.

Lotha Hoho General Secretary, Tsupon Murry, stressed that the rally was a protective measure against future incidents, criticizing Naga nationalist groups for prioritizing selfish gains over the community’s interests.

KN Mhonthung Lotha, Chairman of the Kohima Lotha Hoho, called for unity among the various factions, urging them to come together under one umbrella to achieve the Naga community’s aspirations. 

He questioned the integrity, uprightness, and patriotism of faction leaders, stating that the Naga political movement has become a breeding ground for corruption. Lotha emphasized that leaders are falling into the schemes of adversaries and fighting among themselves, which undermines the community’s goals.  He asserted that it is time for the Nagas to unite, highlighting that the elders, who have witnessed the journey of the Naga political movement, have become weary and silent.

Lotha stressed that the current younger generation has become increasingly impatient and frustrated, as employment in the government sector has reached saturation. Additionally, those wishing to venture into business are deterred by fears of taxation and intimidation, he added. 

Urging the Naga National Movement leaders to respect the voices of the Naga people, particularly the younger generation, he appealed to all Naga national leaders to come forward and establish a unified platform to address and fulfill the aspirations, wishes, and dreams of the younger generation.

Lirhonthung E Kithan, President of the Lotha Students’ Union, called upon all Nagas to unite on this issue and not be divided by fear or intimidation. He urged everyone to stand together for justice, values, and the love for our community. Furthermore, he declared that the LSU will remain steadfast and resolute in protecting our people, our pastor, and our future.

Vandan Erui, President, Wokha District Village Council Chairman Association; Nchumthung Ngullie, Chairman of Chümoukedima Lotha Hoho; CS Ovung, Chairman of the Ralan Area Lotha Hoho; Thungbeni Ngullie, President of Botha Eloe Hoho; Renbi Ngullie, President of All Commercial Vehicle Association, Wokha (ACVA); Santsuthing Kikon from Wokha District GB’s Association; Vungathung Murry, President of Wokha District Chamber of Commerce & Industry (WDCCI); N. Sanchio Lotha, President of Wokha Town Colony Council Union (WTCCU); and the Lotha Lower Range Public Organisation (LLRPO) all voiced their condemnations. They urged the Lotha community to unite and stand together against these injustices.

The rally saw strong participation from Wokha district citizens, prominent leaders, and members of CSOs and student organizations. In total, 16 schools and 2 colleges from Wokha took part. Proper police personnel were on hand for security, ensuring that the rally concluded peacefully without any incidents.

LH memo to Governor 
Later, a memorandum was submitted to the Governor of Nagaland via the Deputy Commissioner, Wokha, outlining several resolutions-

The concerned authority should not release the accused without the agreed terms and conditions of the Lotha Hoho. In the event of any reaction by the NSCN-K ( Khango) to any members of the Lotha community, the Lotha Hoho will initiate strict action as deemed fit. In the event of any intimidation to any members of the Lotha community by any cadre of the Naga national group, the Lotha community shall cease to co-operate with the particular faction.

The Lotha Hoho caution all the NNPG’s not to accommodate or enroll the accused as it will invite non-co-operation. The Lotha community resolved to reiterate the earlier decision of “one Government one Tax” as desired by the Nagas.