Nagaland’s Advisor for Information & Public Relations and Soil & Water Conservation, Imkong L Imchen, passed away today at a private hospital in Guwahati at the age of 75. He is survived by his wife, four sons, and two daughters. Imchen had been admitted to a Kohima hospital on November 8 due to health complications and was later airlifted to Guwahati for further treatment.
A state funeral is set to be held at his official residence at MH/3, Old Minister’s Hill in Kohima at 9:30 AM on November 12, after which his remains will be transported to his native Mangmetong village in Mokokchung district for final rites. Imchen was a veteran politician and a notable public figure, serving the people of Nagaland for over two decades. He held significant positions, including President of the Ao Senden, President of the Ao Students’ Conference, and General Secretary of the Naga Students’ Federation.
Imchen was first elected to the Nagaland Legislative Assembly in 2003 as an Independent candidate from the 28 Koridang Assembly Constituency in Mokokchung. He won five consecutive terms, showcasing his enduring influence despite changing political affiliations. He was elected as a candidate from the Naga People’s Front in 2008, 2013, and 2018, and won again in 2023 representing the Bharatiya Janata Party.
This June, Imchen celebrated his 75th birthday and marked 25 years of public service as an elected representative. During his career, he held various critical portfolios, including Home, Health & Family Welfare, Education, and Environment. At the time of his passing, he was serving as Advisor for Information & Public Relations and Soil & Water Conservation in the People’s Democratic Alliance Government.
In the wake of his death, Nagaland Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio led tributes. Governor Bhalla expressed condolences, stating that the state had lost a dedicated leader who had served in multiple capacities. “On behalf of the people of Nagaland and on my own behalf, I convey my deepest condolences to the bereaved family,” he remarked, hoping for strength for the family during this difficult time.
Chief Minister Rio also expressed deep sorrow, recalling the close professional relationship he shared with Imchen. He described him as not just a colleague but a dear friend, emphasizing his warm personality and strong principles. “In his passing, the Ao community and the Naga people have lost a stalwart leader, and the void he leaves behind will be difficult to fill,” Rio noted.
Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton recalled Imchen as one of Nagaland’s most respected leaders and highlighted the impact of his contributions. The 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly described him as a “towering political figure,” underscoring his commitment to public service and the betterment of society’s weaker sections.
The Naga People’s Front also mourned his passing, recognizing him as a veteran legislator with significant contributions to governance and rural development over his two-decade career. They conveyed their condolences to his family and prayed for comfort during this time of grief.
Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/former-nagaland-home-minister-imkong-l-imchen-passes-away
Category: Nagaland
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-11-11 18:32:00
