Khelen Thokchom. (File Photo)
Newmai News Network
Imphal | April 1
Veteran journalist Khelen Thokchom passed away early this morning in Imphal. He was 58 and is survived by wife, a son and a daughter.
According to family sources, Thokchom complained of chest pain around 1:00 am today and was rushed to Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal, but passed away at 4:30 am.
Thokchom was working as Special Correspondent for
The Telegraph. He was also the Editor of
The Sangai Express before he joined the national daily newspaper.
The mortal remains of Thokchom was brought to Manipur Press Club around 9:30 am and a public condolence programme was held.
Chief Minister N Biren Singh, ministers, MLAs, leaders of social organizations, Acting Chief Justice of Manipur High Court and several eminent personalities of the State paid floral tributes to the departed scribe.
The Chief Minister expressed shock over the sudden and untimely demise of the senior journalist. He visited Thokchom’s house at Tera Tongbram Leikai in Imphal West district and not only paid floral tribute but also shared grief with the bereaved family. The CM said Thokchom was one of his long-time friends as he also started his career as a journalist. “With his demise, we have lost a good friend and a very good human being. I express my deepest condolence and share the sorrow of the family,” he said.
Later, the CM also attended the condolence service held at Manipur Press Club, where large number of people including media persons gathered to pay their last respect.
Forest and Environment Minister Th Shyamkumar also condoled the sudden demise of Thokchom.
In his condolence message, P Vaiphei, Director of Information and Public Relations, Government of Manipur, said in Thokchom’s passing away, the media fraternity of the State of Manipur has lost an efficient and experienced journalist whose absence will be conspicuously felt in the days to come. According to Vaiphei, Thokchom was an inspiration to the younger media persons and his memory shall live in “our minds forevermore”.
