Zeliangrong Youth Organization Nagaland (ZYON) has announced its decision to impose indefinite shutdown in Peren district starting April 22, 2025 to protest against what it described as “delay in justice” for the recent murder of a woman from Mhaikam village, whose body was found in a forested area near Pimla village under Chümoukedima district on April 7, 2025.
ZYON said the shutdown was being called in collaboration with various civil society organizations (CSOs) and subordinate units. Addressing the media here on Monday, ZYON president R. John Zeliang expressed dismay that despite giving ample time to the state government and law enforcement authorities, justice was yet to be delivered.
“We respected the time sought by the authorities, but we cannot keep waiting endlessly. The house has unanimously decided to begin our agitation with the shutdown of all government offices in Peren district and a ban on the movement of government-registered vehicles,” he said.
John Zeliang said that the agitation was not directed at the police department, but at the state government, which he accused of failing to provide adequate infrastructure and resources to the concerned investigative agencies. “This is a systemic failure. The lack of modern facilities gives perpetrators an upper hand, and numerous cases remain unsolved across the state,” he maintained.
ZYON said the agitation would continue indefinitely until justice was delivered. “The government must be held accountable for any untoward incidents involving youth or the general public during the protest,” John Zeliang warned.
ZYON has appealed to the citizens of Peren district and those residing outside to support the movement. “This cause is not just for one individual—it is a fight for the dignity and safety of all our sisters. If women and children are not safe in their own land and jurisdiction, it’s high time we raise our voices,” he asserted.
Echoing similar sentiments, Zeliangrong Students’ Union Nagaland president Adaube Hiekha Hau confirmed that consultations with unit leaders would begin immediately, reaffirming their commitment to continue the fight for justice.
ZYON accuses govt of poor forensic facilities: Zeliangrong Youth Organization Nagaland (ZYON) also raised serious concerns over the state government’s failure to provide modern forensic and investigative facilities.
The youth body said lack of such facilities was a major reason behind delay in the investigation of a recent murder case. The remarks came after ZYON held a meeting with the commissioner of police (CD) Dimapur, Kevithuto Sophie, at his office Monday to discuss the progress of investigation.
Speaking to the media, ZYON president R. John Zeliang expressed disappointment over the slow pace of the investigation. “We had faith that the police would bring swift justice. However, we understand that the lack of proper forensic and investigative infrastructure is hampering progress,” he stated.
ZYON had earlier put its agitation plans on hold, hoping for positive developments, but with no substantial progress, the organization has now resolved to resume its agitation.
He sharply criticized the state government for neglecting critical infrastructure needed for effective policing. “There is a significant gap in facilities, and this has not only impacted this particular case but many other unsolved cases in the state,” he said.
John Zeliang called upon the public to stand in solidarity as the issue goes beyond community boundaries. “This is not just about the Zeliangrong community—it is a matter of basic human rights. The way our sister was murdered is unacceptable. We will not stop until justice is delivered,” he asserted.
Highlighting technical setbacks, ZYON revealed that forensic samples from the case had to be sent outside the state due to inadequate laboratory infrastructure in Nagaland. “Even though a forensic lab exists on paper, it lacks the necessary equipment and resources, leading to further delays,” Zeliang added.
The organization has vowed to intensify its agitation against the state government, demanding urgent measures to upgrade forensic and investigative capabilities and ensure timely justice.