More than two thousand protesters filled the streets of Dimapur on Monday, voicing their frustration over what they call government inaction in a brutal rape and murder case. The massive demonstration highlights mounting public anger over delayed justice and missing forensic reports that have left a family without answers for months.
A powerful coalition led the march from Naga Shopping Arcade, bringing together diverse groups under a common cause. The Zeliangrong Youth Organisation Nagaland, Zeliangrong Students’ Union Nagaland, Western Naga Youth Forum, and Zeliangrong Mipui Organisation spearheaded the demonstration.
Civil society groups, student organisations, and women’s associations joined the peaceful rally. Many participants wore traditional attire as they demanded immediate justice for 31-year-old Kesutlungle Newme, who was allegedly raped and murdered near Pimla. The crowd called for public disclosure of the accused and submission of the pending Forensic Science Laboratory report.
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Speakers at the rally delivered pointed criticism of the state government’s handling of women’s safety. ZYON president R. John Zeliang accused officials of failing to protect women, stating that Naga mothers are not safe and calling for unity beyond tribal divisions.
Zeliang highlighted a stark contrast between government priorities, criticising heavy spending on the Hornbill Festival while the state lacks basic DNA testing facilities. He described the current administration as weak on women’s security issues.
Naga Council Dimapur councillor K. Francis expressed frustration over five months without meaningful progress. He warned that government inaction could invite broader troubles and questioned official respect for women. DNSU general secretary Michael Kath emphasised that anger and grief drove the demonstration, noting the case affects every mother, sister, and daughter in the community.
Following the march, organisers met with the Commissioner of Police to submit their formal demands. The memorandum outlined specific requirements including public identification of the culprits and release of forensic reports within a set timeline.
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The groups also pressed for establishment of a forensic lab within Nagaland to prevent future delays. Organisers explained that repeated appeals had produced little action, and withholding names and reports undermines the justice process.
Police have formed a Special Investigation Team and arrested a suspect on April 10. An interim chargesheet was filed under BNS Section 103(1), with authorities stating the killing occurred during a fit of rage while under alcohol influence.
The FSL report remains pending from an out-of-state laboratory due to Nagaland’s lack of a DNA division. Police indicated a supplementary chargesheet will follow once results arrive.
Kesutlungle Newme, a daily wage earner, was discovered murdered near a pond by NSCN (IM) Martyrs Park on April 7. Police received an alert at 7:52 pm, prompting a joint response from multiple departments and forensic experts.
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In response to the ultimatum, the organising groups announced a 30-day relaxation of their indefinite bandh in Peren district starting August 25 at 8 pm. This temporary pause allows government offices to resume operations and releases seized vehicles.
However, organisers warned of a third, more intense phase of protests if their deadlines pass without government action on naming culprits and producing the forensic report.
