Late Imkong L Imchen (File Photo)
Dimapur, November 12 (MExN): Tributes and messages of condolence continued to pour in from across Nagaland for late Imkong L Imchen, veteran legislator and Advisor to the Departments of Information & Public Relations and Soil & Water Conservation, who passed away on November 11.
A five-time MLA and minister who held various portfolios over more than two decades, Imchen also served society through several social and student organisations. He passed away at a private hospital in Guwahati, Assam, on November 11.
Imchen was accorded a State Funeral on November 12 at his official residence in Old Ministers’ Hill, Kohima, while his final rites are scheduled to be held at his native Mangmetong Village under Mokokchung district on Thursday.
Meanwhile, more condolences poured in for the departed leader, with many remembering him as a towering statesman, a compassionate leader, and a steadfast advocate for Naga unity whose contributions to public life and governance have left an enduring legacy.
Metsubo Jamir: Nagaland Minister for Rural Development & SIRD, Metsubo Jamir, paid tribute to Imchen as a “towering leader, a dear friend, and a respected statesman of our time.”
He also highlighted Imchen’s prominence in public life, his spirit of voluntary service and sacrifice, particularly his contributions to the Ao Senden and the Ao Students’ Conference during their formative years and attributed those to the continued to unity of the Aos.
Over the past twenty-five years, Imchen’s service to the State was marked by sincerity, foresight, and a deep commitment to public welfare, guided by responsibility and compassion, Jamir held.
Beyond politics, those who knew him personally will remember his gentle humour, wise counsel, and his ability to treat everyone, regardless of position or background, with respect and kindness, he added.
As the State mourns Imchen’s passing, Jamir said it also celebrates a life devoted to service, faith, and the upliftment of society.
In his demise, Nagaland has lost one of its finest sons, he said, further conveying his condolences to the bereaved family and praying that they find strength and peace in Imchen’s enduring legacy of love, dignity, and honour.
CL John: Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change and Village Guards, CL described Imchen as a man of integrity, wisdom, and dedication, known for his hard work, straightforwardness, and commitment to public service.
Imchen’s demise is a significant loss to the Ao community, his constituency, and the wider Naga society, he said, extending condolences to the bereaved family, praying for peace for the departed soul and strength for the family.
Sümi Hoho: Imchen was widely admired for his statesmanship, eloquence, and steadfast commitment to public service, the Sümi Hoho stated.
Over the years, he held several important ministerial portfolios and served the people of Nagaland with distinction and integrity, it said.
Stating that Imchen’s demise is a great loss to the State and its people, the Sümi Hoho joined the people of Nagaland in mourning his passing and conveyed condolences to the bereaved family.
Tangkhul Hoho, Nagaland (THN): The departed leader will always be remembered for his humility, commitment, and accessibility, the THN stated in its condolences, lauding Imchen’s illustrious career in public service.
As General Secretary of the Naga Students’ Federation, he was known for his steadfast stand on major issues confronting Naga society and was particularly active in promoting unity under the theme “Nagas without Borders,” it pointed out.
The THN also noted that Imchen was known and appreciated for his bold yet approachable nature and rendered immense service to society in various capacities as a senior statesman.
His demise, it said, has left a great void in public life and it was a collective loss for the Naga society. The THN extended its condolences to all members of the bereaved family and expressed hope that the ideals of Naga unity that Imchen so dearly believed in and worked for will continue to live on in the hearts of the people.
Tenyimi Union Nagaland (TUN): Imchen was a veteran leader who dedicated his life to the service of the Naga people with unwavering commitment and distinction, the TUN stated.
He was upright, outspoken, and fearless—standing firm in what he believed was right and never hesitating to speak his mind for the good of the people, it said, adding that his long and distinguished public service has left an enduring mark on Nagaland’s political and social landscape.
With his passing, Nagaland has lost a seasoned statesman and a guiding presence whose contributions will be remembered with deep respect, it added. The TUN also conveyed its condolences to the bereaved family and loved ones of the departed leader.
Hayithung Bill Lotha: Imchen’s journey as a student and CSO leader, party official, and public servant, including his roles as legislator, minister, and advisor, was marked by achievements reflecting wisdom and exemplary leadership, Hayithung Bill Lotha stated.
His contributions in various roles will be remembered and appreciated for generations, he noted.
Imchen’s demise is a "great and irreversible loss," not only to the Ao community but also to Nagaland and the North-East as a whole, the former Lok Sabha MP candidate added.
