Two brothers lost their lives after a landslide triggered by torrential rainfall destroyed their house in Mokokchung town, Nagaland, early Wednesday, police said.
The victims, identified as Muwalong Sangtam (19) and Thsidiba Sangtam (16), were inside their home in Penli Ward when the landslide struck at around 1 a.m., washing away the structure.
Police, along with community volunteers, launched an immediate rescue operation and later recovered the bodies of both brothers from the debris.
The victims’ mother and elder brother were rescued and are currently receiving medical treatment.
According to Mokokchung Deputy Commissioner Ajit Kumar Verma, the bodies were taken to the District Hospital, Mokokchung, where legal formalities, including an inquest and medical examination, were completed before being handed over to the family. A prayer service was held later in the day, and the mortal remains were taken to their native Alisopur village in Kiphire district for the last rites.
Following the incident, authorities have evacuated residents living in landslide-prone areas and shifted affected families to safer locations as a precaution.
The district administration also announced ex gratia compensation of ₹4 lakh for each deceased person and said relief materials are being distributed to families affected by the heavy rains.
Meanwhile, Mokokchung Police have registered a case of unnatural death, and further investigation is underway.
The incident comes amid widespread heavy rainfall across Nagaland, with authorities urging residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert as the risk of landslides continues.
