Contemporaries shower tributes to Padma Shree M Vero

The send-off programme for Padma Shree Melhupra Vero held at the Agri Expo, 4th Mile on January 25. (Morung Photo) 
 

Morung Express News
Dimapur | January 25

The mortal remains of the first Parliamentarian from Nagaland state and Padma Shree Melhupra Vero was taken to his native Rünguzu village, Phek following a send-off programme at the Agri Expo, 4th Mile today. 

His contemporaries and personalities in the forefront of the present day Naga socio-political spectrum, many of whom regarded Vero as a friend, father figure and mentor, showered tributes reminiscing his career as a politician, social activist and peace mediator, that began in the 1950s. 

One of Vero’s earliest contemporaries, Rev Dr VK Nuh described him as a genuine person, who “played well his role in politics and public life.” 

We grew up when the situation was moving fast. We have known each other for 70 years. In all those years, I found him to be a genuine person. He was in politics and I was in (Christian) Ministry. He was a man of principle, of peace and a man of tolerance,” said Rev Nuh. 

Another of his contemporary, though younger in age, Ekhyomo Lotha, who succeeded Vero as Rajya Sabha Member in 1974, recollected their first meeting as students in the early 1960s. According to Lotha, Vero was initially a batch mate of his elder brother, but their careers in politics brought them together. He said that they were among the first Naga delegation to Delhi, who advocated for Naga integration and even meeting the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1968.

Peace activist Niketu Iralu also recollected with pride his association with Vero and of the work he did for the greater Naga cause and the values he espoused. 

Rev Dr Wati Aier, founding principal of the Oriental Theological Seminary and Convenor of the Forum for Naga Reconciliation, recalled getting acquainted with Vero as a young man through his father. He said that he especially remembers Vero telling him, “We must go beyond our little understanding.” While stating that those words still echoes today, Rev Aier said, “What I got from him is that regional interest should not overshadow the greater Naga interest and that is the (sense of) Naga belonging.” 

State Minister for Forest, Environment & Climate Change, CM Chang spoke on behalf of the Nagaland state government. According to Chang, the Nagas have lost “one of their best.” At a personal level, he said that as a government servant, he learned a lot from Vero since their first meeting in the 1980s. 

Neiba Kronu, Kuzholuzo Nienu and Dr Chotisu Sazo were the other legislators who spoke. 

Former Chief Minister KL Chishi said that he met Vero as a law student in Mumbai 52 years ago when the former initiated the formation of a Naga Students forum there and later going on to work together in electoral politics. He was witty, humourous and down to earth. “I have always respected him for his integrity and have always considered him a great soul for the Nagasd,” said Chishi. 

A representative from the NSCN (IM) read out a tribute from its Yaruiwo (President) Q Tuccu. The representative said that he first heard Vero speak as the President of the Naga Hoho 20 years ago. While stating that Vero “loved our land,” he added he still clearly remembers the speech he gave and trying to replicate the lesson imbibed. 

The GPRN/NSCN on behalf of the Convenor and co-convenors of the Working Committee, Naga National Political Groups said that it was Vero’s desire to make the Nagas strong and thrive and added, “The Naga Hoho under Vero was an epitome of uprightness.”

Scato Swu’s son spoke on behalf of the Western Sumi Hoho. The Western Chakhesang Hoho, Chakhesang Colony Council (Walford) and Vero’s immediate family members also spoke.  

The last rite will be held at his native village on January 26 at 1:00 pm after which he will be laid to rest. 

Brief stopover prog held in Kohima

Our Correspondent
Kohima | January 25

Nagaland’s Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today saluted late M Vero, describing him as a special man born to the Nagas.

Speaking at the brief stopover programme of the mortal remains of M.Vero at Chakhesang Baptist Church Kohima (CBCK) premises, Rio said that late M. Vero has achieved his life and in all his life time he served the people.
Rio said that M. Vero has been recognized as a tall leader and received Padmashree.

Also recalling his association with the later in the different categories, Rio said that after his retirement from politics, he dedicated his life for the people and served as president of Naga Hoho.

Chief Minister said that Late. M. Vero even walked upto Myanmar to unite the Nagas.
Rio called upon the people to emulate the legacy left behind by M.Vero.

Earlier, a brief service was led by Kohima Chakhesang Hoho president Theja Therieh.
Ex-Naga Hoho president Yesonu Veyie and ex-minister Zhovehü Lohe also spoke at the service. The service concluded with prayer by Vezopa Rhakho, pastor CBCK.