Veteran Naga politician and five‑time state legislator Imkong L. Imchen died on Tuesday after a brief illness. He passed away in a private hospital in Guwahati at the age of 75, and a state funeral was held for him in Kohima on Wednesday.
During the ceremony, officials from Nal Bhumir dauth to the front of the assembly gathered to pay their respects. Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Assembly Speaker Sharingain Longkumer, the state’s chief secretary Sentiyanger Imchen, several other MLAs, and Imchen’s wife Alila joined the mourners. In a post on his X account, Rio said: “Paid my last respects to late Mr. Imkong L. Imchen… He was a dedicated leader who devoted his life to public service and the welfare of the people. May his soul rest in peace.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also sent his condolences. On X he wrote: “Saddened by the passing of Nagaland BJP MLA Imkong L. Imchen. Through decades of dedicated service for public welfare, he has left behind a legacy that will be fondly remembered.”
After the state funeral, Imchen’s body was transported by road from Kohima to his native village of Mangmetong in Mokokchung district, passing through Wokha. Final rites are scheduled for Thursday in the village.
Imchen’s political career spanned more than 40 years. He first entered politics in 1980, serving as minister in several departments, including Rural Development, Power, Education, Home, Health and Family Welfare, and Environment. He was elected to the Nagaland Assembly from the Koridang constituency five times: 2003 as an Independent, 2008, 2013, and 2018 on the Naga People’s Front, and again in 2023 on a BJP ticket.
His death was mourned by national leaders, including Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda, BJP National President Nadda, Acting Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, and Chief Minister Rio. The state and community will remember Imchen as a humble, hardworking leader who devoted his life to serving the people of Nagaland.
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