The Sumi Totimi Hoho (STH) and the Lotha Eloe Hoho (LEH) have strongly condemned two recent cases of alleged sexual assault and rape reported in Nagaland, describing the incidents as heinous crimes that have shocked society and undermined public trust in institutions and individuals entrusted with positions of responsibility.
In a statement, the Sumi Totimi Hoho expressed its strongest condemnation and deep concern over the alleged rape of an 82-year-old woman at High School Ward, Kiphire.
The Hoho stated that it was deeply disturbed by the gravity of the allegations, particularly because the accused was a member of a disciplined force entrusted with the responsibility of protecting citizens and upholding the law. It maintained that individuals vested with public trust must be held to the highest standards of integrity, professionalism and accountability.
The organisation also strongly condemned another reported incident involving a 40-year-old church youth leader from Kohima Village, who allegedly sexually assaulted a 17-year-old girl while they were engaged in church-related activities. The Hoho said the incident had deeply shocked and saddened the community as youth leaders are looked upon as role models and moral guides by young people.
According to the STH, any alleged abuse of such trust represents a profound betrayal of faith and responsibility. The organisation asserted that sexual violence has no place in a civilized society and cannot be justified under any circumstances.
Demanding that justice be delivered swiftly and transparently, the Hoho called for the full force of the law to be applied against those found guilty. It further appealed to community leaders, churches, civil society organisations and responsible citizens to unite in safeguarding the dignity, safety and rights of women and children.
Meanwhile, the Lotha Eloe Hoho also issued a strong condemnation of both incidents, describing them as deeply disturbing and alarming.
The LEH said it was particularly appalled by the allegations involving the Kiphire police personnel, noting that members of law enforcement agencies are entrusted with the duty of protecting citizens and upholding the rule of law. The Hoho stated that if the allegations are proven true, such conduct would amount to a grave betrayal of public trust and a serious violation of the dignity and rights of women.
On the reported assault of the minor girl, the LEH said the incident had caused widespread anguish and concern as it involved a person occupying a position of moral responsibility and influence within the church community.
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The organisation maintained that both incidents constitute heinous crimes against women and children and reiterated that sexual violence in any form can never be tolerated. It noted that such acts not only inflict severe physical and emotional trauma on victims but also erode the moral fabric of society and weaken public confidence in institutions entrusted with care, protection and leadership.
Calling for a fair, impartial and expeditious investigation, the LEH urged law-enforcing agencies and concerned authorities to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice in accordance with the law. It also stressed the need to safeguard the dignity, privacy and rights of the victims throughout the legal process.
The Hoho further appealed to churches, community leaders, civil society organisations, parents and citizens to remain vigilant and work collectively towards creating a safer environment for women and children.
Expressing solidarity with the victims and their families, both organisations reiterated their commitment to supporting efforts aimed at protecting vulnerable sections of society and ensuring accountability for crimes of sexual violence.
