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DIMAPUR — Nagaland politician and former minister S Kyukhangba Sangtam, popularly known as SK Sangtam, passed away at his residence in Dimapur on Thursday following an extended battle with multiple ailments.
He is survived by his wife and four children.
Sangtam’s mortal remains have been taken to his native place, Angangba village, situated in the Longkhim circle of Tuensang district, for the final rites.
A post-graduate from NEHU, Meghalaya, Sangtam initially joined the Congress party as the general secretary of the youth wing. His political journey saw him contest in the 1987 elections from the 52 Longkhim-Chare Assembly Constituency, resulting in a loss.
Despite this setback, he secured victories for three consecutive years thereafter.
His final foray into electoral politics was in the 2008 Nagaland Legislative Assembly election, where he contested as a Congress candidate and emerged victorious.
Mourning the former minister’s demise, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio said that SK Sangtam was not just a political figure but an enthusiastic and passionate leader who served society in various capacities since his youth.
“We worked together from 1989 to 2002, and I found him to be a selfless person who always worked for the welfare of the people, especially those from the marginalised section,” Rio said in a condolence message.
Rio said his demise leaves an irreplaceable void, marking a significant loss for the Naga society, especially the Sangtam community. “However, let us celebrate his life by remembering the noble contributions he had made to the society,” he stated.
The chief minister conveyed condolences on behalf of his family and prayed for God to grant solace and courage to the bereaved.
Heartfelt condolences to the family of Shri S. K Sangtam, former Minister, Government of Nagaland.
— Neiphiu Rio (@Neiphiu_Rio) December 7, 2023
May the departed soul rest in eternal peace. pic.twitter.com/PpTaxkKeaD
Meanwhile, Speaker of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA), Sharingain Longkumer, has also condoled the demise of Sangtam.
Longkumer stated that his dedication and contributions to his community and to the people of the state would be remembered and continue to inspire the citizens. He further conveyed condolences to the bereaved family members and prayed for the peace of the departed soul.
In another statement, Deputy Chief Minister and leader of BJP Legislature Party, Y Patton, condoled the demise of SK Sangtam.
Patton stated that Sangtam’s service and dedication to the people were exemplary and his legacy of commitment and integrity would continue to inspire the Naga people.
He lamented that his passing away at this juncture was a great loss for the Nagas.
On behalf of the state BJP legislators, Patton conveyed condolence to the bereaved family and prayed for the departed to rest in eternal peace.