CM: State chief minister Neiphiu Rio has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of veteran Naga peace activist and thinker Niketu Iralu in New Delhi following a brief illness.
In a condolence message to Mrs. Christine Iralu, wife of late Niketu Iralu, Rio described Iralu as one of Nagaland’s finest minds, an intellectual, mentor and tireless advocate of peace and reconciliation. He said Iralu devoted his life to justice, dialogue and understanding, leaving an indelible mark on Naga society and beyond.
He said Iralu’s association with Moral Re-Armament (MRA), now Initiatives of Change, reflected his lifelong commitment to building trust and reconciliation across divides.
Rio recalled that, upon the advice of elders, Iralu made Sechü-Zubza his home with his wife Christine at “House of Listening – Kerünyü Ki”, which became a place of peace, reflection and healing for people from across the country and abroad.
He also highlighted Iralu’s contribution to addiction rehabilitation in Nagaland through his initiative to connect KRIPA Foundation, Mumbai, with the Naga Mothers’ Association, which led to the establishment of Mount Gilead Home at Sechü-Zubza, where Iralu served as its first director and counsellor.
Rio said Iralu’s commitment to peace, moral courage and reconciliation earned him admiration across generations and was recognised with the Lifetime Achiever Award by Initiatives of Change International in South Africa in 2025.
Recalling his personal association with Iralu, Rio said he valued his wisdom, counsel and generosity of spirit, adding that their families’ connection through marriage made the relationship especially meaningful.
Describing Iralu’s passing as a profound loss to the Naga people and all those whose lives he touched, Rio said his legacy of selfless service, humility and hope would continue to inspire generations.
On behalf of the State Government and his colleagues, Rio conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, friends and all those mourning his passing and prayed for strength and comfort for them and eternal peace for the departed soul.
Jwenga: JD (United) legislator Ar. Jwenga Seb has mourned the sudden demise of veteran Naga peace activist Dr. Niketu Iralu on August 18.
Seb described Iralu as a moral leader and advocate of reconciliation who stood firmly for truth, peace and reconciliation.
He said Iralu’s passing was an immense loss, adding that his legacy of healing divides would continue to inspire generations.
AWO: The Angami Women Organisation (AWO) has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Dr. Niketu Iralu, describing him as a respected Naga peace activist, social thinker, writer and advocate of reconciliation.
AWO president Neithono R. Sothu and general secretary Atono Kense said Iralu devoted decades to peacebuilding, trust-building and reconciliation in Nagaland and beyond. Through his work with the Naga Reconciliation Commission and Initiatives of Change, he played a significant role in promoting dialogue, understanding and healing in a society affected by conflict.
The organisation said his demise was a great loss to the Angami community and the Naga people, adding that his commitment to peace, writings and belief in reconciliation would remain part of his enduring legacy.
The AWO conveyed condolences to his family, loved ones, colleagues and associates and prayed for strength and comfort for the bereaved family.
KRN: Khonoma Rüffüno Nagaland (KRN) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of veteran Naga peace activist and reconciliation advocate Dr. Niketu Iralu in Delhi on August 18.
In a condolence message, KRN president Rokovisa Chase and secretary Dr. Vitsosie Vüprü described Iralu as a passionate advocate of reconciliation and a healer who devoted his life to conflict management, trust-building and dialogue across political and ethnic divides.
The organisation said Iralu was associated with several organisations and remained actively involved in efforts to bridge divisions and promote dialogue among communities and political groups. It described him as a core guiding force in initiatives for reconciliation, peace and justice.
KRN said Iralu’s humility and amiable personality had deeply impacted many, adding that his demise was a profound loss not only to Khonoma and the Naga people but also to the wider peacebuilding community worldwide.
The organisation conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for solace and strength to bear the irreparable loss.
NTC: Nagaland Tribes Council (NTC) has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of Dr. Niketu Iralu in New Delhi while undergoing treatment.
NTC president C. Pankathung Lotha and general secretary C. Onen Walling said Naga society had lost a loving soul who not only preached but lived his life promoting love, unity, truth and forgiveness at the State, Northeast and global levels as a messenger of God.
The council conveyed its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed that God’s love, hope and comfort would sustain them during the difficult time.
KRKR: Khonoma Rüffüno Kuda Razha (KRKR) has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of its revered elder and peacebuilder Niketu Iralu.
KRKR president Vithoselie Terhuja described Iralu as a son of Khonoma whose work for reconciliation, truth, moral integrity and peace extended across Nagaland, Northeast India and beyond. It said his dedication to healing historical wounds and bridging divides left an indelible mark on Naga society.
It said Iralu’s life was a testament to humility, wisdom and moral courage, adding that his legacy of peacebuilding, deep listening and integrity would continue to guide future generations.
The organisation conveyed heartfelt condolences to his wife, Christine, and the bereaved family, relatives and all those who held him dear. It prayed for comfort, strength and solace for the family and for his soul to rest in eternal peace.
NH: Naga Hoho (NH) has mourned the passing of veteran peace activist, thinker and social worker Niketu Iralu, affectionately known as “Uncle Niketu”, who passed away on August 18.
In a condolence message, Naga Hoho speaker Pauheu Newme described Iralu as a visionary peacebuilder, moral voice and steadfast advocate of reconciliation who dedicated his life to healing divisions, building trust and fostering understanding among Nagas and beyond.
NH said Iralu’s commitment to personal transformation, deep listening and bridge-building, embodied in his “Kerünyü Ki” (House of Listening), made him a beacon of hope and healing.
It remembered Iralu as a key guiding force and wise counsellor whose counsel enriched the work of the Naga Hoho and inspired many seeking peace and understanding.
The hoho said his life demonstrated that lasting peace must be rooted in dialogue, forgiveness and reconciliation, adding that the values he upheld would continue to guide the Naga people.
NH conveyed heartfelt condolences to his wife, Christine Iralu, the bereaved family, relatives and friends and prayed for strength, comfort and peace for them.
It said Iralu’s legacy of reconciliation and hope would remain etched in Naga history and continue to inspire generations.
KIN: Kuki Inpi Nagaland (KIN) has expressed profound grief over the passing of veteran peace activist and statesman Niketu Iralu, describing him as a “conscience keeper” for Northeastern communities.
In a condolence message, KIN president L. Singsit said Iralu consistently advocated moral courage, mutual respect and honest introspection, recalling his reminder that “wounds that are not healed get transferred” as a lesson for breaking cycles of conflict and building lasting peace.
KIN said Iralu’s passing was particularly significant for the Kuki community due to the historical connection between his father, Dr. Sevilie Iralu, and the Kuki people. It said Dr. Iralu, while serving as a medical doctor in Tening, shared the Gospel and developed an enduring friendship with Lengjang Kuki, one of the signatories of the Memorandum to the Simon Commission.
KIN said Niketu Iralu carried forward that legacy of Christian love, trust and fraternity in his lifelong engagement with the Kuki community.
KIN conveyed condolences to Iralu’s wife, Christine, and children and prayed for comfort for the bereaved family.
Kitovi: GPRN/NSCN ato kilonser and Working Committee, NNPGs convener N. Kitovi Zhimomi has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of veteran Naga peace activist Niketu Iralu, describing him as an “intellectual giant” whose life was devoted to peace, reconciliation and service to the Naga people.
Zhimomi said Iralu fearlessly used his writings and public engagements to speak for humanity and the Nagas, guided by his Christian faith and a strong sense of moral responsibility. He said Iralu addressed the conscience of society and consistently called for reconciliation, unity, conflict resolution and moral renewal.
According to Zhimomi, Iralu’s deep understanding of nationalism, history, politics, conflict, faith and humanity enabled him to engage meaningfully with people from all walks of life, whether in personal conversations or large public gatherings.
Recalling his interactions with Iralu during their involvement with the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR), Zhimomi said Iralu never sought name or recognition, but was guided by a sense of duty and servanthood towards his people.
He described Iralu as a genuine peacemaker whose humility, wisdom and persistent call for dialogue over bitterness had a deep personal impact on him. Iralu’s efforts to rebuild trust and relationships among communities and armed groups, he said, would remain a significant contribution to the Naga peace process.
Zhimomi said Iralu’s passing had deprived Naga society of a courageous and principled voice at a time when his wisdom and counsel were deeply needed. He said his legacy of peace, reconciliation, dialogue and moral courage would continue to influence the Naga people.
Zhimomi conveyed his deepest condolences to Iralu’s wife, Christine, and the bereaved family, describing his passing as an unbearable loss to his loved ones. He prayed for God’s strength and comfort to sustain the family during the time of grief.
GPRN/NSCN (U): GPRN/NSCN (Unification) ato kilonser Alezo Venuh has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of veteran Naga peace activist Niketu Iralu on August 18.
In a condolence message, Venuh described Iralu as a guiding light whose life was devoted to peace, reconciliation and harmony, saying his demise had left a deep void in Naga society and the wider socio-political landscape of the Northeast.
Venuh said Iralu worked tirelessly to create an environment where the Naga people could flourish and was among the rare leaders who listened patiently to diverse perspectives. He said Iralu consistently upheld reconciliation, fraternity and mutual respect among Naga national workers, with his contribution to the Forum for Naga Reconciliation remaining an enduring part of Naga history.
He said Iralu’s understanding of the historical and political complexities of the Naga issue never made him confrontational, as he consistently advocated unity and solidarity and believed differences could be addressed through dialogue, understanding and reconciliation.
Venuh noted that Iralu was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award by Initiatives of Change for his commitment to peace and reconciliation and received the Dr Bhupen Hazarika Integration Award in 2023 for his contribution to cultural and social integration in Northeast India.
On behalf of GPRN/NSCN (U), Venuh conveyed condolences to Iralu’s wife Christine, the bereaved family, relatives, friends and all those mourning his passing. He prayed for strength and comfort for the family and eternal peace for the departed soul.
He said Iralu’s legacy of peace, reconciliation, fraternity and service to humanity would continue to inspire generations.
NSCN-K (Niki): NSCN-K (Niki) has mourned the passing of veteran Naga peace activist Niketu Iralu, describing him as a towering personality who tirelessly worked for peace, reconciliation and unity among the Nagas.
In a condolence message, the group said Iralu’s commitment and contribution to the Naga people were immense and that his demise was a loss to the Naga people as a whole.
It said his legacy would continue to guide the present and coming generations and prayed for peace for the departed soul and solace for his near and dear ones.
NSA: Naga Scholars’ Association (NSA) has mourned the passing of revered Naga elder, statesman and peace activist Niketu Iralu.
In a condolence message, NSD executive team, Delhi said Iralu devoted his life to peace, reconciliation, social healing and building a better Naga society. It described him as a rare individual who worked beyond tribal divisions, guided by humanity, compassion and a belief in the shared destiny of the Naga people.
NSA said his decades of service, including efforts to bring communities and organisations together to address Nagaland’s social challenges, reflected his courage, humility and commitment to the people.
The association said Iralu’s wisdom, gentle spirit and lifelong commitment to peace and reconciliation would continue to inspire generations, adding that his life remained a message of hope, humanity and peace.
The NSA conveyed condolences to his family, loved ones and all those who knew him and prayed that his legacy would continue to inspire the pursuit of peace, reconciliation and unity among the Nagas.
NNC/FGN: NNC/FGN Kedahge Zhopra Vero has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of veteran Naga elder, scholar and peace activist Niketu Iralu.
Vero described Iralu as a rare voice of conscience, bridge-builder and non-partisan elder who devoted decades to reconciliation among the Nagas, particularly during periods of deep conflict and political division.
He said Iralu spoke with courage and integrity, addressing difficult issues without compromising his principles and working across political and social lines for the unity and well-being of the Naga people.
Vero said Iralu’s contribution to the Naga reconciliation process and efforts to bring rival groups to dialogue would remain important parts of his legacy. He said Iralu’s life left a responsibility for the Naga people to reject violence and hatred, overcome divisions and pursue reconciliation and unity with humility and perseverance.
On behalf of the NNC/FGN and personally, Vero conveyed condolences to Iralu’s wife, Christine, their child, family, loved ones and associates, and prayed for his soul to rest eternally with Jesus Christ.
GNF: Global Naga Forum (GNF) has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of veteran Naga peace activist Niketu Iralu, describing his demise as a loss to the Naga people and all who knew and respected him.
In a condolence message, GNF convenor Chuba Ozukum and general secretary Lakpachui Siro said Iralu was a rare voice of wisdom, peace, reconciliation and unity who devoted much of his life to building understanding among Nagas and creating bridges across divisions.
The forum said what distinguished Iralu was not only his intellect and convictions but also the warmth, humility, empathy and ability to listen that made people from diverse backgrounds feel respected.
GNF said his passing had left an immense void, but his life also left a responsibility to uphold the values he stood for—peace without surrender, unity without exclusion, reconciliation without forgetting history, and a future founded on mutual respect and understanding.
The forum conveyed condolences to Iralu’s wife, Christine, family, relatives, friends and all those mourning his passing, saying his legacy would continue to guide and inspire generations of Nagas.
ACAUT: Against Corruption and Unabated Taxation (ACAUT) Nagaland has mourned the passing of its adviser, Dr. Niketu Iralu, describing him as the “conscience” of the organisation.
In a condolence message, ACAUT convenor Simon Kelio said Iralu’s wisdom, integrity and quiet resolve had guided the organisation’s deliberations and strengthened its efforts against corruption and exploitative taxation.
ACAUT said Iralu’s lifelong commitment to non-violence, dialogue and transparency had inspired its fight for a just and peaceful society. It described him as a father figure who held the powerful to account with dignity while maintaining compassion for the marginalised.
The organisation said it would carry forward his legacy with the honesty and courage he embodied.
ACAUT conveyed condolences to the bereaved family and loved ones and prayed for strength and solace, and for his soul to rest in eternal peace.
DNSU: Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU) has mourned the passing of veteran Naga peacebuilder, thinker and conscience keeper Niketu Iralu.
DNSU said Iralu dedicated his life to peace, reconciliation and a better future for the Naga people. Through his words, writings and lifelong engagement, he emphasised dialogue, forgiveness, understanding and collective responsibility.
The union said his contributions would continue to inspire generations of Nagas to pursue peace and uphold the values of truth, reconciliation and humanity.
DNSU conveyed deepest condolences to the bereaved family, loved ones, friends and all those touched by his life and work, and prayed that his legacy of peace would continue to guide the Naga people.
FNBA: Fellowship of Naga Baptist Associations (FNBA) has mourned the passing of respected Naga elder, writer, thinker and social commentator Niketu Iralu.
In a condolence message, FNBA general secretary Rev. Dr. H. Gideon said Iralu made significant contributions to Naga society through his writings, public engagement and reflections on Naga history, identity, political aspirations and the pursuit of peace.
FNBA said his commitment to peace and non-violence and engagement in the Naga political and peace processes made him an important voice in the Naga journey. It said he consistently encouraged dialogue and recognised the role of civil society in building a peaceful and responsible future.
The fellowship recalled Iralu’s association with FNBA, saying he had on several occasions served as a resource person, sharing his wisdom and experience with its leaders and participants. His contributions enriched its programmes and encouraged deeper reflection on the responsibility towards God, the Church and the Naga people, it said.
FNBA described his demise as a profound loss to his family and the wider Naga community, while remembering his life of service, courage, commitment to peace and concern for future generations.
The fellowship conveyed condolences to the bereaved family, relatives and friends and prayed for strength, comfort and peace, saying his wisdom, convictions and legacy would continue to inspire generations.
Kronu: Former minister Neiba Kronu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of veteran Naga peace activist, educator and social scientist Niketu Iralu in New Delhi on August 18.
Kronu said Iralu devoted decades to building trust, fostering understanding and promoting peace, particularly through the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR).
Describing him as a humble and dedicated soul, Kronu said Iralu’s wisdom and untiring commitment to peace and reconciliation would be remembered with gratitude in Naga history and beyond.
He conveyed condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for the departed soul to rest in eternal peace.
CTAN, NNQF: Combined Technical Association of Nagaland (CTAN) and Nagaland NET Qualified Forum (NNQF) have mourned the passing of veteran Naga elder, thinker and peace advocate Niketu Iralu, fondly remembered as “Uncle Niketu”.
In a condolence message, CTAN and NNQF recalled Iralu’s support for young people, particularly during their 2025 protest against the regularisation of 147 Assistant Professors and Librarians posts. They said Iralu lent his voice to their concerns through podcast platforms and participated as a speaker at the “Public Dialogue on 147”.
They said that despite attempts by some to dissuade him from attending the dialogue, Iralu came, listened and spoke, giving courage and legitimacy to the young people involved.
CTAN and NNQF said Iralu believed in the ability of young people to question, imagine and shape a better future. They remembered him for his intellect and humility, strong convictions and sincerity, saying he remained a trusted voice even when people disagreed with him.
They said his life reflected the belief that painful history need not become a permanent inheritance and that wounds must be transformed rather than transferred. His legacy of peace, reconciliation, understanding and listening would continue to guide younger generations, they said.
Describing Iralu as a peacemaker, bridge-builder and conscience of Naga society, CTAN and NNQF conveyed condolences to his family, loved ones, friends and all who knew and worked alongside him.
They said his encouragement had given confidence to young people and expressed hope that the values he lived for would continue to guide future generations.
SH: Sümi Hoho described Iralu as one of Nagaland’s most prominent peace activists and a respected voice for peace, reconciliation and the Naga people.
In a condolence message, SH president President Dr. Vihuto Asumi said his passing was a great loss to the community, calling him a man of conviction, wisdom, courage and unwavering commitment. The Hoho prayed that God would raise more leaders of his stature and extended solidarity to the bereaved family.
RH: Rengma Hoho termed him an esteemed son of Khonoma village, a revered Naga elder, statesman and tireless advocate for reconciliation. The hoho said his wisdom, humility and moral conviction left an enduring mark on the Naga journey and that his departure created an irreplaceable void.
RH expressed hope that his legacy would continue to inspire unity and peace among the people.
TWUN: Tenyimia Women Union Nagaland (TWUN) said the loss was immeasurable for the Naga people and all who valued peace and humanity. The union recalled his decades-long efforts to bridge divisions, rebuild trust and promote reconciliation through dialogue and forgiveness.
TUD: Tenyimi Union Dimapur (TUD) described him as “one of the tallest Naga leaders of our time” and said his unwavering commitment to peace, reconciliation, justice, and the unity of the Naga people would remain an enduring legacy for generations to come. TUD also said his wisdom, humility, and tireless service to society have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.
TYOD: Tenyimi Youth Organisation Dimapur (TYOD) described late Iralu as an extraordinary pillar of wisdom, integrity, and grace. It said he dedicated his entire life to the nobility of peace-building, dedicating himself to bridging deep-seated divisions, cultivating trust where there was suspicion, and championing dialogue over conflict. The youth body said his demise has left a monumental void in the Naga peace movement and created “an irreplaceable loss in the moral, social, and spiritual fabric of our nation.”
TNR: The Naga Rising (TNR) remembered Iralu as an elder and guide whose quiet strength and strong conviction for a better future left a lasting influence. The organisation recalled his advice to prioritise what is right in the eyes of God, keep processes clean, and reflect carefully on the past to build a better future.
Kuki bodies: Kuki organisations, including Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills, paid tribute to Iralu as the “Grand Old Man of Northeast India” and a moral compass of the region. They recalled his efforts during periods of Kuki-Naga tension in Manipur, noting that his voice of reason and appeals for grace and forgiveness helped prevent further escalation.
SCSU: Sheanghah Chingnyu Students’ Union (SCSU) fondly recalled his address during the union’s Golden Jubilee in 2013 on the theme “Marching towards Prosperity,” saying his words on love, peace and harmony left a lasting impression.
PC and NEISSR: Peace Channel (PC) and North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR) described him as a living witness to the power of forgiveness, dialogue and compassion. They noted that he was conferred the Peace Channel Peace Award in 2021 and said his association with the organisation reflected a shared vision for peacebuilding.
Thenucho: Former speaker of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) Thenucho Tunyi remembered Iralu as a true gentleman — soft-spoken, articulate, warm and humble — who consistently championed dialogue, mutual respect and compassion. He said Iralu held a deep love for the Naga people and emerged as a respected voice both within India and beyond.
All the organisations extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for strength, comfort and consolation in their time of grief.