DIMAPUR MARCH 13 (MExN): M. Chenlom Phom, former Speaker of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) passed away at his residence after a prolonged illness on Tuesday. He was 86.
Born on January 1, 1932, M Chenlom Phom joined politics in 1973 and contested as a United Democratic Front candidate in the 1974 state election from Longleng constituency but lost. In 1977, he re-contested as a UDF candidate and won. Again from 1980-1982, he served as the Minister of State for Relief and Rehabilitation, Education and Jails.
He was again re-elected in 1982 on a Naga National Democratic Party ticket and served in the opposition. In 1985, he was sworn in as the Deputy Speaker of the NLA. In 1987, he was elected as the Speaker.
In 1987, Chenlom was re-elected as a Congress candidate and served in the capacity of Cabinet Minister for Geology & Mining, and Art & Culture.
Then in 1993, he was re-elected as a Naga People's Council candidate and stayed in the opposition MLA for 3 years. From 1995-1997, Chenlom served as the Chairman of the Nagaland Sugar Mill Corporation.
In 2003, Chenlom was re-elected again as a Janata Dal United candidate and served as Cabinet Minister for Fishery, Printing and Stationary. From 2005-2008, he served as Advisor, DUDA (Department for Under Developed Areas) and Border Affairs.
Meanwhile, family members of late Chenlom Phom informed that the funeral service will be held on March 14, 10 am at his private residence at Purana Bazar, Dimapur. His mortal remains will be buried at Yachem village on March 16 after a funeral service at Longleng on March 15.
He is survived by his wife Chubasenla, 4 sons, one daughter, 3 daughter-in-laws, one son-in-law and 13 grand children.
