Imkong L Imchen. (DIPR File Photo)
• State funeral today in Kohima
• Governor, CM lead in paying tributes
Morung Express News
Dimapur/Kohima | November 11
Veteran politician from Nagaland, Imkong L Imchen, Advisor for Information & Public Relations and Soil & Water Conservation, passed away today in Guwahati. He was 75 and is survived by his wife, four sons, and two daughters.
He was one of Nagaland’s most seasoned legislators, known for a long and distinguished career in public service spanning over three decades.
On November 8, Imchen was admitted to Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK) after reportedly suffering a heart attack. He was airlifted to Guwahati on November 10 for further treatment and passed away the following day.
A State Funeral has been scheduled at his official residence at MH/3, Old Minister’s Hill, Kohima, from 9:30 AM on November 12.
The service will be streamed live on the official YouTube channel of DIPR Nagaland.
Late Imchen’s mortal remains will then be taken to his native Mangmetong village in Mokokchung district via Wokha, where funeral rites will be performed on November 13.
From student leader to five-term MLA
Late Imchen began his political journey with the Indian National Congress (INC), serving as General Secretary and later President of the INC (DCC-I), Mokokchung, from 1989 to 1997. From 1997 to 2003, he was Vice President of the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC).
He was first elected to the 10th Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) in 2003 as an Independent representing the 28 Koridang Assembly Constituency, Mokokchung, and subsequently served as Minister for Rural Development (2003–2004) and Minister for Power (2004–2005).
Imchen went on to win the seat for five consecutive terms, demonstrating his enduring influence and resilience despite changing party affiliations in one of the district’s most hotly contested constituencies.
Re-elected in 2008 on an NPF ticket, he served his second term in the 11th NLA and as Minister for Home Department from 2008 to 2013. Prior to the elections to the 12th House, he resigned in February 2013, “owning moral responsibility” after the alleged recovery of cash and arms from his vehicles by Election Commission authorities, though he maintained that he “committed no wrong under the law.”
This did not affect his electoral fortunes, as he was re-elected for a third consecutive term in March 2013, serving as Minister for Health & Family Welfare (2013–2014) and holding additional charge of Election and Parliamentary Affairs in 2017. He was re-elected again in 2018 to the 13th NLA, and in March 2023, he won his fifth term as a BJP candidate. Until his passing, he served as Advisor to the Departments of Information & Public Relations and Soil & Water Conservation.
In June 2023, Imchen celebrated his 75th birthday and 25 years of public service as an elected legislator. Prior to entering politics, he was actively involved in social platforms, serving as President of Ao Senden and Ao Students’ Conference, and as General Secretary of the Naga Students’ Federation.
Imchen was known for his cheerfulness and outspokenness, unafraid to speak his mind, sometimes regardless of party lines. Just before his medical complications, he visited Chungtia, Aliba, and Sapangya Compound on November 5, expressing his intent to contest the next election.
Undefeated in electoral politics, his plans were cut short by unforeseen health issues.
Outspoken, dogged & seasoned
Meanwhile, Nagaland Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio led the state in mourning Imchen’s demise and paid tributes to the departed leader.
In his message, the Governor acknowledged Imchen’s contributions to the State and the society at large in various capacities. He conveyed condolences to the bereaved family on behalf of the people of Nagaland and himself, praying that the Almighty grants them fortitude, and solace to bear the profound loss.
CM Rio recalled their long association, describing Imchen as “a warm, cheerful, and outspoken person who was never afraid to express his opinions and always stood up for what he believed in.”
He added that the Ao community and the Naga people had lost a stalwart leader whose absence would be deeply felt. On behalf of the State Government, he conveyed condolences to Alila Imkong, Imchen’s wife, and the family, praying for strength and comfort in their time of sorrow.
Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton also paid tribute, recalling Imchen as “one of Nagaland’s most respected and seasoned leaders” and guiding presence within the BJP Nagaland family.
Through decades of public life, he upheld values of integrity, humility, and perseverance, setting an example for others to follow, he added.
NLA Speaker Sharingain Longkumer described him as “a towering political figure” whose life reflected an unwavering commitment to public service and the upliftment of weaker sections of society. Along with the 14th NLA, he extended condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for peace to Imchen’s soul and strength to his loved ones.
The Naga People’s Front (NPF) acknowledged his contributions to governance, transparency, and rural development, describing his legacy as an enduring source of inspiration.
Political parties, leaders, organisations, and individuals also mourned his demise, recognising his contributions to public service and governance.
