DIMAPUR — Abdul Kayum Talukdar, Gaonbura (GB) of New Market, Dimapur, was fatally shot by unidentified assailants on Friday night near Signal Basti Evening Bazaar.
According to a police officer at the scene, the incident occurred around 9:30 pm as Talukdar was entering a building with a staff member. He was shot in the back of the left shoulder from behind and was taken to Faith Hospital by two good Samaritans, where he was pronounced dead on arrival, the officer said.
Police recovered an empty bullet shell, suspected to be from a .32 pistol, at the scene. Talukdar’s body was transported to Civil Hospital for a post-mortem examination, as police continue their investigation.
Ahidur Rehman, working president of the Muslim Council Dimapur (MCD), told reporters that Talukdar was a respected GB who served the entire community and was also a member of the MCD. He said that Talukdar’s family members were travelling to Dimapur from Guwahati and that the family would decide whether to bury him in Dimapur or transport his body to his native village in Karimganj, Assam.
He also informed that the New Market community would organise a funeral programme and appealed to the Chief Minister for a swift investigation and the arrest of the perpetrator.
Khekishe Aye, GB of New Market, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, stating that such occurrences should never take place and urged the police to apprehend the culprit. Aye said that the New Market GB Committee would discuss with the GB Union about closing New Market from Saturday until the culprit is apprehended.
Hokuto Zhimomi, president of the Dimapur District GB Association, condemned the killing and emphasised the need for peace in Dimapur.
Meanwhile, the New Market Business Welfare Committee of Ward-19 condemned the killing, stating that the act of violence has raised significant concerns regarding the safety and well-being of the business community.
“The savage and inhumane nature of this crime has left us in a state of profound distress and horror, resonating deeply within our community”, it said in a condemnation note.
The committee called upon the law enforcement authorities to thoroughly investigate this atrocity and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice without delay.
“It is imperative that comprehensive measures are implemented to protect our vulnerable community members and prevent such monstrous acts in the future,” it said, while appealing to all conscientious citizens to condemn the horrific act.
