Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio, Deputy CM, Eastern Nagaland Legislator’s Union (ENLU) and Konyak Union (LU) have condoled the demise of Cheno Konyak, father of C.L. John, minister for forest, environment & climate change and village guards, who passed away on April 14 evening. He was 105.
In a condolence message to CL John, Rio said he was deeply touched to know that late Cheno Konyak was a man of truth, integrity and a big heart, who always kept the welfare of his people as priority throughout his life. Besides being a reformer who fought against the social evils which were prevailing in the Konyak community, Rio said late Cheno had also taught his children to be humble, kind and selfless.
In his demise, Rio said the Konyaks have lost a guardian and a father-figure and the vacuum left by him would be difficult to fill.
Rio, along with his family, conveyed deepest condolences to the bereaved family and prayed that Almighty God grant them comfort and strength to bear the irreparable loss and for the departed soul to rest in eternal peace.
DY. CM: Deputy chief minister Y. Patton has condoled the death of PJ Cheno, father of minister CL John. Patton said that the late Cheno was a pioneer in the field of Christianity and Konyak literature in Mon district, particularly his area and also a true son of the soil. On behalf of the state BJP legislators, Patton conveyed deepest condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for the departed soul to rest in peace.
ENLU: Eastern Nagaland Legislator’s Union (ENLU) convenor P Paiwang on behalf of the union deeply mourned the demise of Pj Cheno. Paiwang said that Late Pj. Cheno was a patriotic son of the soil. The union recalled that late Cheno was instrumental in ushering Christianity into Konyak soil in 1960. Late Pj. Cheno was also a member of the first Konyak Literature committee, an active member during the formation of NNC in 1957 and a social reformer under the banner of Konyak Students’ Conference. Paiwang said that during 1960 and early 70s, late. Pj. Cheno served as “Ranapeyu” of Phita Range, Rajapeyu during 1963-71 and also under his initiative, Chen Circle office was established in 1968. Further during 1960-1968, Late Pj. Cheno was made in-charge for the mission house of Chenwetnyu village. The believers also held church service in his house till the village church was constructed. He was also the deacon for 35 years (1976-2011).
Describing him as a man of faith, principle and integrity who lived a good life and served the Konyak’s in particular, Paiwang said late. Cheno’s hard work and dedication towards the community in particular shall remain engraved in the hearts of the Konyak. On behalf of ENLU, Paiwang conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed that the departed soul rest in eternal peace.
KU: Expressing heartfelt condolence, the Konyak Union (KU) said that late Cheno Konyak was a well-respected member of the Konyak Naga Society, and his contributions to the community was immeasurable.
In a condolence message, KU president Tingthok Konyak and press & media secretary Nokzei P Konyak said late Cheno lived his life to the fullest, and his legacy would remain for generations to come. The union said that his passing away has left a void in the community, but at the same time left behind a positive impact that would continue to inspire all.
Late Cheno was a man of goodwill, and he dedicated his life to the betterment of society, KU stated. “His selfless contributions will always be remembered, and we are grateful for all that he has done,” KU said. The union prayed for the bereaved family members to find comfort and also the departed soul to rest in eternal peace.