Dimapur, Nov. 10 (EMN): A state funeral was accorded to former minister K Yamakam on Saturday at his residence in Purana Bazaar, Dimapur. The four-time legislator had passed away on Friday, aged 89.
According to a DIPR report, at the funeral tributes were paid by the state government, Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party, Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation, Western Yimchungru Hoho, Yimchungru Union Dimapur, and friends and former colleagues.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio in his message described Yamakam as a simple and down-to-earth leader, a man of integrity and commitment, known for relentlessly raising the voice of the people he represented, the report stated.
Former chief minister and one-time colleague, Dr. SC Jamir, speaking at the funeral, described the departed leader as ‘a man of strong conviction, and trustworthy friend and colleague’ who worked tirelessly worked for the uplift of Tuensang area in particular.
Yamakam’s son Toshi Wungtung, an advisor in the present government, spoke on the family’s behalf. Leader of Opposition TR Zeliang, former as well as sitting legislators, and people from all walks of life attended the funeral.
After the service, the mortal remains were airlifted to Shamator town in Tuensang district where the departed leader will be laid to rest on Nov. 11. Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio paid his tribute at the airport.
