State funeral accorded to Nagaland veteran politician Noke Wangnao

DIMAPUR — Sitting Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) legislator and Advisor of Social Welfare, Noke Wangnao was accorded a state funeral at his residence in Dimapur on Monday.

The veteran lawmaker passed away around 4 am on August 28 at the Christian Institute of Health Sciences and Research, Chümoukedima after suffering from a cardiac arrest. He was 87 and is survived by his wife Apham Wangnao, four daughters, two sons and grandchildren.

Elected to the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) for the ninth time earlier this year on NDPP ticket, from 43 Tapi Assembly Constituency under Mon district, he was the senior-most legislator in the incumbent assembly.

Speaking at the funeral service of the nine-time MLA, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio said the deceased remained completely devoted to serving the people until his very last breath.

Wangnao was instrumental in successfully navigating through various crises, including an assassination attempt and demonstrating unwavering principles, dedication, and a staunch regionalist, Rio said, adding he played a vital role in the formation of the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP).

He said that the deceased consistently provided his insights and advice with utmost sincerity for the betterment of the Naga people, while recounting how he remained steadfast in his commitment to contest elections under a regional party during the emergency period in India and the imposition of President’s rule in Nagaland.

‘As we bid him farewell today, it is not just a loss for his family, but a significant loss for me as well,’ he said, adding that the NDPP and the state government will deeply feel his absence.

Describing Wangnao as an elder brother, advisor, colleague, friend, and a source of wisdom, Rio said he had an exceptional ability to bring a sense of reason and calmness to the discussion table and in the realm of politics, where uncertainty often prevails, and provided a considerable sense of security.

The departure of an individual who fearlessly speaks the truth creates a noticeable void, one that is not easily filled, making it a challenging task to bridge that vacuum, he said, adding, ‘as a tribute to his memory and the enduring legacy he has left them, let us embody his principles and commemorate his life, even in the midst of the sadness of his departure’.

Also speaking at the service, Deputy CM Y. Patton said Wangnao was not just an elected representative but also a statesman whose legacy would echo through the hills and valleys of Nagaland forever.

His decades-long commitment to the state was steadfast and unwavering despite facing challenges and overwhelmingly difficult situations at times, said Patton, adding that he had worked in various capacities, including minister and advisor, ushering in vital reforms and initiatives that have enriched lives and shaped the future of the social fabric.

Even in the political landscape, he was a beacon of unwavering honesty with outstanding integrity, he said.

‘Today, the 14th NLA mourns the loss of an irreplaceable pillar, and the people of Nagaland have been robbed of a tireless servant who devoted his life to their well-being. The Konyak community, in particular, has lost a cherished son, a role model, and a guiding light,’ he added.

Speaking at the funeral service, Apham Wangnao, wife of late Noke Wangnao, said that he had a heart problem in 2010 but recuperated after getting treatment. Subsequently, in 2018, he began using a pacemaker for his heart, following which he had to undergo checkups every three months and no complications were detected.

However, he was rushed to CIHSR after experiencing breathing problem around 1 am on Monday but breathed his last at 4 am.

Wangnao’s brother-in-law shared a brief account of the legislator, while condolence messages were delivered by NLA Speaker Sharingain Longkumer; MLA P Longon (on behalf of Eastern Nagaland Legislators’ Union); PDA convenor and NDPP president Chingwang Konyak; Director of Social Welfare department; ENPO president; Konyak Baptist Church, Dimapur; and President of Konyak Union Dimapur.

After the funeral service, the mortal remains of Wangnao were taken to his native Mon village, where he will be laid to rest.

Also read: Governor, Chief Minister condole death of Nagaland’s senior-most lawmaker