Nagaland Mourns the Loss of Veteran Leader Imkong L Imchen
The state of Nagaland is in mourning following the passing of Imkong L Imchen, a respected political figure and five-time Member of the Legislative Assembly. The 75-year-old leader, who served as adviser for information & public relations and soil & water conservation, breathed his last at a private hospital in Guwahati on Tuesday.
Final Journey: Health Complications and Treatment
Imchen's health had been deteriorating in recent weeks. He was initially admitted to the Naga Hospital Authority in Kohima on November 8 after experiencing serious health complications. As his condition required more advanced medical care, he was airlifted to Guwahati the following day. Reports indicate the veteran politician suffered a heart attack on the night of November 8, which significantly worsened his condition.
A Stellar Political Career Spanning Decades
Born in Mokokchung district, Imchen established himself as one of Nagaland's most enduring political figures. He represented the Koridang constituency in the Nagaland assembly for five terms, demonstrating his consistent connection with the people. His most recent electoral victory came in the 2023 assembly elections, where he won on a BJP ticket.
Throughout his distinguished career, Imchen held several key ministerial portfolios in the Nagaland government, earning respect from colleagues across party lines for his exemplary leadership and dedicated service to the state.
State Funeral and Tributes Pour In
A state funeral will be conducted at his official residence in Kohima to honor the late leader and allow citizens to pay their final respects. The news of his demise prompted an outpouring of grief from prominent figures across Nagaland.
Nagaland governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla remembered Imchen as a dedicated and sincere leader who served society in multiple capacities - as a student leader, public representative, cabinet minister, and adviser.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio shared heartfelt memories, describing Imchen as a warm, cheerful, and outspoken visionary who never hesitated to voice his convictions. "In his passing, the Ao community and the Naga people have lost a stalwart leader. The void he leaves behind will be difficult to fill," Rio expressed.
Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton called Imchen's demise a profound loss for Nagaland, characterizing him as one of the state's most respected and seasoned leaders, and a guiding presence within the BJP.
The passing of Imkong L Imchen marks the end of an era in Nagaland politics, leaving behind a legacy of service that will be remembered for generations to come.
