Former Gaonbura of Tesophenyu village, Yhunthonlo Kez has been convicted of rape and sentenced to 10 years rigorous imprisonment with a fine of Rs 10,000 under Section 376 (1) IPC, failing which he shall undergo one year of simple imprisonment.
According to a press release issued by Additional Public Prosecutor, Abraham, the Court of Mezivolu T Therieh, NJS, Principal District and Sessions Judge, Kohima, vide order dated December 12, 2025, convicted Yhunthonlo Kez (42), who was serving as Gaonbura of Tesophenyu village at the time of the offence, under Sections 376(1), 354A(1)(i) and 323 of the Indian Penal Code.
He was further sentenced to one year of rigorous imprisonment with a fine of Rs 1,000 under Section 354A(1)(i) IPC, with an additional three months of simple imprisonment in default. Under Section 323 IPC, the court awarded six months of simple imprisonment with a fine of Rs 500, and one month of simple imprisonment in default. All sentences are to run concurrently.
The case was investigated by UBSI Vikuobinuo of Women Police Station, Kohima. During the trial, nine prosecution witnesses were examined and the case was conducted by L Sashimongla, Special Public Prosecutor, Kohima, on behalf of the State.
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Taking into account the advanced age of the victim and the severe physical and mental trauma suffered, the court directed the State Government to release Rs 2,00,000 as compensation under Section 357A CrPC and the Victim Compensation Scheme. The court further ordered that upon recovery of the total fine amount of Rs 11,500 from the convict, Rs 6,000 shall be paid to the victim as additional compensation.
While delivering the conviction, the court observed, “The offence of rape is serious and grave and undermines the bodily integrity and dignity of the victim. The victim, in this case, was aged about 82 years and was completely helpless at the time of incident which was committed in the sanctity of her home. Although the accused is a first-time offender, the mitigating circumstances do not outweigh the aggravated factors. Furthermore, he being a Gaonbura holds important customary and administrative position but has failed to adhere to the discipline expected of him.”
The Additional Public Prosecutor expressed appreciation for efficient coordination among all stakeholders, including the Investigating Officer, the Prosecution team, witnesses and support personnel whose collective effort ensured an effective investigation and a successful trial. He further reassured that the office of the Public Prosecutor Kohima, remains deeply committed to protecting the rights of Women, especially vulnerable victims and would continue its unwavering endeavour to secure justice in all offences committed against women.
