DIMAPUR, FEB 1 (DIPR): Late Dr. Hokishe Sema who passed away on January 31 was accorded a state funeral today at DDSC Stadium, Dimapur. The funeral service was attended by a host of leaders, former colleagues, tribal organizations, besides the Chief Minister and his ministerial colleagues.
The Governor of Goa, S.C. Jamir who was also present at the occasion spoke about his first contact with Late Dr. Hokishe Sema 48 years ago when he visited Jamir’s village and spoke in the church. He was also one in the first batch of students to attend a Government-aided school in Mokokchung district, Jamir recalled. From his early days he was a role model because of his involvement in various student activities and was also a brilliant student, the Goa Governor added. In his later stage he entered into a political career at a juncture when the Nagas were going through a period of great pain. Jamir also said that late Hokishe had one vision and that was to see the formation of Nagaland state. He was also a true nationalist, a true political pragmatist and having true political wisdom.
Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio on his behalf and also on behalf of the government of Nagaland paid homage to “the great son of the soil”. Late Hokishe has become a household name not only in Nagaland but far and wide and has also influenced the history of the Nagas, he stated.
Short speeches were also delivered by Speaker, Nagaland
The Leader of opposition I. Imkong said that Late Hokishe was a guiding star and that it would be difficult to fill the vacuum he leaves behind as a person. Imkong said that although he did not have any close relationship as a politician in the earlier stage, the contribution he has given to the people of Nagaland is immense and that it was his privilege to work along with him in the present Legislative Assembly. He further added that the present young leaders of today should emulate his contribution.
Legislative Assembly, Minister for Health & Family Welfare Dr TM Lotha and senior citizen of Dimapur Manik Bhattacharjee and also friends and family members. Condolence message was also received from the Raj Bhavan.
Later citizens of Kohima turned out again in huge numbers to pay their last homage to the departed leader as the hearse carrying the mortal remains of Late Hokishe made a brief stop for a condolence service at High School junction this afternoon.
Pastor, Chakhesang Baptist Church, Ministers Hill, Vevo Phesao said the invocation prayer. Short speeches were delivered by BJP President, Kohima district, R. Sopu, President, Angami Public Organisation, M. Zinyü and retired Commissioner Renchamo Ezung who reminisced over his personal friendship with the departed leader.
After the speeches, wreathes were laid by Minister, Planning and Co-ordination, Dr. Shürhozelie, MLA K.V. Pusa, besides several government departments, organizations like AWO, ASU, AYO, IG (AR), DIG (AR) and several others.
The daughter of Late Hokishe expressed gratitude to the citizens of Kohima for according their respect and homage to her father. Saying that of all the lessons she has learnt from her father, the most important was that of humanity and humility. She also said that her late father loved everybody and had no enemies. The hearse then proceeded towards Akuluto.
