The Jakhama Village Council, along with the Jakhama Youth Organisation (JYO) and Jakhama Students’ Union (JSU), held a solemn candlelight vigil at PHQ Junction, Kohima, on October 31 in honour of Late Vihozhonu Zao, who was brutally murdered, with her body discovered on October 25.
The tragic incident has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation across Nagaland, with numerous organisations and individuals demanding swift justice for the 22-year-old from Jakhama village.
Representing the Jakhama Village Council, Vimhakhoto Tetso expressed deep sorrow and condemnation over the gruesome killing, and recalled that Late Viho was a brilliant student of St. Joseph’s College, Jakhama, ranking among the top three in the Department of Economics.
Tetso said late Zao was a passionate sportsperson who had represented the Kohima District Basketball Association in the Second Nagaland Olympic Games 2022, winning a gold medal, and also represented Nagaland in the first Under-23 National Basketball Championship 2025 held in Guwahati.
The Village Council urged law enforcement agencies and the State Government to expedite the investigation, identify and arrest the perpetrators, and ensure transparency and fairness in the judicial process. It also appealed to churches, organisations, and right-thinking citizens to unite in supporting the bereaved family and demanding justice.
Calling for concrete measures to enhance safety and security for women and children to prevent such tragedies in the future, the Council assured the victim’s family of its full solidarity and support “until justice is delivered.”
The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) expressed shock and grief over the murder, calling it a “grave assault on humanity” and a painful reminder of moral decay in society. The Federation extended condolences to the bereaved family and loved ones praying for their strength and comfort during this difficult time and urged authorities to ensure a fair and speedy investigation, stressing that “perpetrators are brought to justice without delay or leniency.”
Kesosul Christopher Ltu, President of the Angami Youth Organisation (AYO), also conveyed condolences to the victim’s family and condemned the act, saying, “Late Zao’s life was cut short in a brutal act of violence.” He appreciated the solidarity shown by people across affiliations in demanding justice, stating that such solidarity is crucial to restoring faith in society.
“Justice delayed will be justice denied,” Ltu asserted, urging the authorities to expedite the investigation and ensure justice is served.
Condemning the heinous act, Ltu emphasised that such brutality has no place in the society. Citing recent incidents, he said it had tarnished the city’s and state’s reputation.
Ltu appealed every individual to stand together as guardians of peace and demand justice for Late. Zao.
Diezevisie Nakhro, President of the Angami Students’ Union (ASU), Kohima said the Union stood united in outrage and solidarity, terming the murder “a tragedy that affects not just the individual but a collective conscience”.
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Extending condolences to the family and community, ASU demanded justice and accountability from the authorities, while calling for systemic measures to prevent future occurrences.
ASU also urged the authorities to take concrete actions to prevent such incidents in the future.
Remembering late Zao, ASU said that the union commits to standing firm against acts that undermine human dignity and to pursuing justice until it is fully served.
“Her dreams and legacy will live on through our actions and commitment to peace and justice,” he noted.
Southern Angami Students’ Union (SASU) also expressed its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the deceased. SASU strongly condemned the brutal murder and emphasised that such violence has no place in the society.
SASU also questioned the values of a community that claims to prioritize Christ, culture, and forgiveness, yet fails to ensure safety and justice for all.
SASU also urged the government to strengthen the systems, rather than hiding behind apathy.
Alumni Association SJC Jakhama, shared deep sadness at the brutal act of violence, which has taken away a promising young life. The association also stood in solidarity with the family and strongly condemned the heinous crime, which has no place in a civilized society. The association also urged the authorities to expedite the investigation, uncover the truth, and ensure justice is served.
St. Joseph’s College, Jakhama also extended heartfelt condolences to the family of late Zao, a former student who tragically lost her life. SJC family expressed deep sorrow and condolences to the bereaved family.
On behalf of the family and elder expressed gratitude and appreciation to all who came in support of late Zao and thanked each and every individual for their love and support.
The candle light vigil was chaired by Vikethoto Tetso, President JSU and Pastor Kezhosato Savi from Jakhama Baptist Fellowship, Kohima, delivered the invocation.
The vigil included the lighting of candles, hymns, and speeches from various organizations, including Jakhama Women Society, Angami Women Organisation, Southern Angami Youth Organisation, and Elvina, a student of St. Joseph’s College. Vishuthazo Kirha, President JYO, delivered the vote of thanks.
