Kohima, August 6: Today, thousands of Kohima residents braved heavy rain to participate in a major protest against the pervasive illegal taxation, harassment, and intimidation by militant groups. The demonstration, organized by the Angami Youth Organization (AYO) at the Old MLA Hostel junction, delivered a strong message:“Enough is enough.”

The protest was ignited by recent threats from the Khango faction of the NSCN-K, which issued a death threat to an Angami contractor, escalating tensions and drawing sharp criticism from the community.

Key figures such as Kevesa Khamo, president of the Chakhesang Youth Front, and Limhathung N Yanthan, president of the Lotha Youth Hoho, spoke out against these militant practices. Khamo asserted, “We will not tolerate illegal taxation and intimidation,” while Yanthan emphasized that such practices are “foreign to our Naga culture” and must be opposed.

Following the protest, the AYO presented a memorandum to the Governor of Nagaland, demanding the rigorous enforcement of ceasefire agreements and greater protection for citizens against extortion and threats. The document also urged the State Government to reassert its authority and address the illegal activities of groups like the NSCN (Khango), which has made death threats over non-compliance.

The protesters, concerned about rising costs and widespread fear, called for immediate action to end illegal taxation, protect against threats, assert government authority, and uphold Naga cultural values.