Dimapur, March 4 (MExN): The National People’s Party (NPP) Nagaland State unit on Wednesday remembered its founder, late Purno Agitok Sangma, as one of North-East India’s tallest leaders while observing his 10th death anniversary at the party’s State headquarters in Bank Colony, Walford Road, Dimapur.
During the commemoration, party leaders and members paid tribute to the former Lok Sabha Speaker and described him as a visionary tribal statesman whose legacy continues to inspire generations.
Speaking on the occasion, Vice President and Chief Spokesperson K James Vizo highlighted Sangma’s political journey—from his early years in West Garo Hills, Meghalaya, to becoming Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Union Minister holding key portfolios, and Speaker of the Lok Sabha from 1996 to 1998.
Vizo noted that Sangma presided over the Lok Sabha during a politically turbulent period marked by coalition instability, and upheld parliamentary democracy with neutrality and dignity.
As Speaker, he ensured fairness to both the ruling party and the opposition while strengthening discipline in the House, he said.
“His tenure symbolised inclusiveness, particularly as a tribal leader from the North East presiding over one of the highest constitutional institutions of India,” he added.
Vizo further noted that Sangma’s founding of the NPP in 2013 reflected a vision of creating a political platform rooted in regional pride with a national outlook.
The growth of the NPP as a recognised national party today, he said, stands as a testament to his enduring legacy.
In his message on the occasion, NPP Nagaland State President and MLA A Nyamnyei Konyak described Sangma as a guiding force for the people of the NE, informed a press release issued by the Media & IPR Cell, NPP Nagaland.
Sangma’s life exemplified integrity, courage and unwavering commitment to democratic values, and called upon party workers to draw inspiration from his humility and dedication, he said.
Meanwhile, NPP Nagaland informed that Vizo and Kikokul John Kulnu, State Executive Member, will represent the State unit at a one-day Capacity Building Training Programme scheduled to be held on March 7 at the NPP National Headquarters in Shillong.
The training aims to strengthen organisational coordination and leadership development within the party, it added.
