The Lotha Youth Hoho (LYH), under the aegis of Lotha Hoho, organised a public rally at Wokha Town today to exhibit its resentment of the “Physical assault and attempt to murder of Mr. Rhanlamo Kikon, Pastor, Yanpha Baptist Church, unabated illegal taxation, Harassment, intimidation and death threat to common people”.

The event also witnessed strong turnout from members of civil society organisations, citizens from across Wokha district and students from 16 schools and two colleges.

The CSOs of Lotha community also submitted a memorandum to the Governor of Nagaland through the Deputy Commissioner, Wokha, highlighting the following resolutions:

1. 1. The Concerned Authority should not release the accused without the agreed terms and conditions of the Lotha Hoho.
   2. In the event of any reaction by the NSCN/GPRN (Khango) to any members of the Lotha community, the Lotha Hoho will initiate strict action as deemed fit.
   3. 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.
   4. The Lotha Hoho cautions all the NNPG’s not to accommodate or enrol the accused as it will invite non-cooperation.
   5. The Lotha community resolved to reiterate the earlier decision of “One Government One Tax” as desired by the Nagas.

Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play

Earlier at the public rally held at Police Point, Clock Tower, Limhathung N Yanthan, President, Lotha Youth Hoho, condemned the “attempted murder and unwarranted physical assault” on Rhanlamo Kikon, Pastor of Yanpha Baptist Church, by Akhekevi, a cadre of NSCN/GPRN (Khango), on 24th August 2024 at Naukhuti Town under Niuland district and terming it an. He stated that today’s demonstration is a statement of the Lotha community against illegal taxation, extortion, threats, and intimidation and asserted that the community will not support any faction involved in such activities.

Further, Yanthan urged the Heads of Departments (HODs) under Wokha District to be vigilant and be stationed in their respective posts instead of simply attending the monthly DPDB meetings. He also pointed out that the absence of HoDs causes inconveniences to the general public.

Tsupon Murry, General Secretary, Lotha Hoho, expressed concern over Naga political groups putting their selfishness before the interest of the society.

K. N. Mhonthung Lotha, Chairman, Kohima Lotha Hoho, criticised the corruption that exists in the Naga groups and the division among the present leaders of the Naga political movement. He urged the various factions to unite as one in order to achieve the common Naga aspirations. He regretted that due to rising unemployment, the younger generation have become increasingly impatient and frustrated and at the same time those who have the ambition to venture into entrepreneurship are deterred by concerns of illegal taxation and intimidation.

Nchumthung Ngullie, Chairman, Chümoukedima Lotha Hoho, called for the adoption of strong resolutions by the community. Condemning the attack on the Pastor, he strongly stated that the accused must not granted be bail without Lotha Hoho’s consent.

C.S. Ovung, Chairman, Ralan Area Lotha Hoho, commended community for showing solidarity and concern and stressed that their key demand is that the accused should not be granted bail.

Lirhonthung E Kithan, President of the Lotha Students’ Union (LSU), emphasised the need for all Nagas to stand together for justice. He declared that the Union will remain steadfast and resolute in protecting the Lotha people, the Pastor, and the future of the Lotha community.

Vandan Erui, President, Wokha District Village Council Chairman Association (WDVCCA), challenged the various factions of Nagaland to display the spirit of patriotism rather than focus on taxation.

The other speakers at the event included Thungbeni Ngullie, President of Botha Eloe Hoho; Renbi Ngullie, President of the All Commercial Vehicle Association, Wokha (ACVA); Santsuthing Kikon, representing the Wokha District GB’s Association; Vungathung Murry, President of the Wokha District Chamber of Commerce & Industry (WDCCI); N. Sanchio Lotha, President of the Wokha Town Colony Council Union (WTCCU); and the Lotha Lower Range Public Organisation (LLRPO)