DIMAPUR: More organisations and personalities have continued to pour deep shock and sorrow at the sudden demise of peace activist, social worker, Niketu Iralu, who passed away on August 18, in New Delhi.
Th Muivah: In a condolence message, ato kilonser NSCN/GPRN (I-M), Th Muivah stated that Dr. Iralu’s life was a testament to peace, dialogue, humility and selfless service to Naga nation, adding that being calm, cheerful and wise, he consistently chose understanding over confrontation and dialogue over division, working tirelessly to bring people together and promote greater good.
He said late Iralu was respected across communities, nations and walks of life, stating that his honesty, gracious conduct and unwavering commitment earned him the stature of a true statesman and patriot.
Muivah noted that Khonoma village stands as a proud testament to the courage, resilience and valour of the Naga people, renowned for its historic resistance against the mighty British Empire, adding that Iralu’s contributions remain a source of pride and inspiration, making Khonoma not only a village of historic courage, but also celebrated for having produced a true legend of the Angami and Naga people in general.
The message stated that Iralu was a signatory to the 2nd Naga Consultative Meeting on strengthening peace process in Bangkok, Thailand signed in 2002 with Naga civil societies in carrying forward the Indo-Naga peace talk, adding that his exceptional roles in reconciling people and political groups through various civil society bodies/forums can never be ignored but etched in Naga history.
Muivah, on behalf of NSCN/GPRN, later conveyed deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and all those whose lives he touched and prayed that the Almighty God comforts all and gives strength and solace.
KG Kenye: Minister of Power and Parliamentary Affairs, KG Kenye considered late Niketu as a respected peace activist, social worker, thinker and a tireless advocate for peace, reconciliation and unity.
A condolence message, Kenye stated that Iralu’s passing was an immense loss to Nagas and to all those who knew and admired him.
He added that for decades, Iralu devoted himself to the cause of peace and reconciliation, working tirelessly to build bridges of understanding and trust among people and communities, while adding that his commitment to dialogue, forgiveness, humility and non-violence made him respected and influential voice in the search for lasting peace in the Naga society.
Beyond his public contributions, Kenye noted that Iralu would be remembered for his wisdom, integrity, compassion and deep concern for the future of the younger generation. “His life demonstrated that genuine leadership is not merely about positions or power, but about serving people and helping society move towards healing and unity”, he stated.
Kenye extended deepest sympathies to the bereaved family, relatives, friends and all those who mourn his passing and prayed that the Almighty God grant strength, comfort and courage to bear this irreparable loss.
CNTC: The Central Nagaland Tribes Council (CNTC) has described him as a “colossal figure in Naga society,” highlighting Iralu’s lifelong dedication to peace, reconciliation and moral integrity.
The message noted his significant contributions through Initiatives of Change (IofC) and the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR), where he worked tirelessly to heal divisions, promote unity and advocate forgiveness across lines of conflict.
CNTC stated that his vision of non-violence, truth and mutual understanding had a transformative impact on Naga society and beyond.
His wisdom and moral courage, it added, will remain an enduring inspiration for generations to come.
The council extended heartfelt condolences to Christine Iralu, his family and all who drew strength from his life and work. It prayed for comfort and peace for the bereaved family, while affirming that his legacy of reconciliation and unity would continue to guide the Naga community.
CNTC further prayed for Niketu Iralu’s eternal peace, expressing hope that his vision for fraternity, solidarity and unity will live on in the collective conscience of the people.
LMFN: Linguistic Minority Forum of Nagaland (LMFN) in a condolence message stated that late Iralu dedicated significant part of his life to the cause of peace, dignity, reconciliation and welfare of society, who was widely respected for his selfless service, wisdom and unwavering commitment to peace.
Though his physical presence may no longer be with present, LMFN asserted that his ideals, words and noble contributions would continue to inspire generations to come.
LMFN also extended deepest sympathies to the bereaved family, friends, colleagues and all those who were inspired by his life and work and prayed that God give strength, courage and comfort to bear this irreparable loss.
NPMHR: In a condolence message, Naga Peoples Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) described Iralu as a lifelong advocate for peace and reconciliation, recalling his work with Moral Re-Armament (MRA), later known as Initiatives of Change, where he served as Director at Asia Plateau, Panchgani.
He was among the few Nagas of his generation with significant international exposure, inspiring many young Nagas through his vision and dedication.
Returning to Nagaland in the late 1980s, Iralu helped establish the Kripa Foundation in Kohima to address drug addiction and related issues.
During the turbulent years of fratricidal killings among Naga groups, NPMHR engaged him in human rights initiatives, including as a speaker at its 1990 Human Rights Seminar. He also played a key role in the year-long International Year of the World’s Indigenous People in 1993, which culminated in the celebration of Naga Week.
Iralu was remembered for his contributions to civil society dialogues, including discreet Track-II engagements with Indian civil representatives in places such as Barapani, Kaziranga, Goa and Kolkata. NPMHR noted that he consistently articulated the sentiments of “today’s Nagas” and provided moral leadership during critical moments.
The organisation also celebrates his life and legacy. Extending condolences to his wife Christine, daughter Vipulie and family, NPMHR prayed for strength and comfort during this time of grief.
AAGBA: The All Angami Gaon Bura Association (AAGBA) has described late Niketu Iralu as a true son of the soil who dedicated more than six decades of his life to peacebuilding and the betterment of Naga society.
In its condolence message, AAGBA president, Lhousavi Kipu and general secretary, Rünyü Kengurüse highlighted Dr. Iralu’s tireless work with Initiatives of Change (IofC), the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) and various other initiatives that sought to heal divisions and foster unity among the Naga people. His lifelong commitment to reconciliation and dialogue was remembered as a cornerstone of his contribution to society.
The association extended heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to the bereaved family during what it described as a dark and difficult time. Quoting scripture, AAGBA recalled Matthew 5:9: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
Tangkhul Hoho Nagaland: The Tangkhul Hoho Nagaland has described late Niketu Iralu as a man whose life of commitment to love, peace and faith in the Creator was unparalleled.
In its condolence message, the Hoho stated that no words could adequately capture his lifelong devotion and service to humanity, particularly his dedication to the Naga people. It affirmed that he would always be remembered as a “distinctive tower of peace and humility.”
The organisation pledged to honour his legacy by continuing his vision of peace and unity, acknowledging that his loss is “huge and irreplaceable.”
It prayed for the Almighty to grant solace to the bereaved family and guide them through this difficult time. Concluding with a heartfelt farewell, the Hoho said: “Fare thee well Uncle. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
ZWAD: Zeliangrong Welfare Association Delhi (ZWAD) in a stated that Iralu was not just a leader, but was also a moral compass for Naga people and the wider Northeast region.
It added that for over six decades, Iralu dedicated his life tirelessly to pursuit of peace, understanding and reconciliation across political and ethnic divides.
“Through his pioneering leadership with the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR), Initiatives of Change and his cherished sanctuary Kerunyu Ki (“House of Listening”), he taught us the enduring value of dialogue, empathy and mutual forgiveness”, the message read.
ZWAD further extended deepest condolences to his wife, Christine Iralu, family members and all who drew inspiration from his life and vision and prayed that Almighty God grants strength, comfort and solace to the bereaved family during this time of immense grief.
Tetseo College: Tetso College Community in a condolence message by the College expressed profound sadness by the demise of Iralu, whom the college considered as a man of extraordinary compassion, champion of non-violence, and a dedicated social reformer whose moral values and vision would continue to inspire generations.
“His indelible footprint in Naga history and his lifetime of selfless contributions toward peace and trust-building will never be forgotten.
While heaven welcomes a noble soul, we on Earth remain committed to honoring his legacy by continuing the vital work of restoration, dialogue, and reconciliation among the Naga people”, the message read.
SCAN: Senior Citizens Association Nagaland (SCAN) remembers late Niketu with particular pride as a valued member of the association.
On the International Day of Older Persons, October 1, 2019, he was honoured with the Senior Citizens Nagaland Award in recognition of his distinguished contribution and exemplary life of service.
The passing of “Uncle Niketu Iralu” was an irreplaceable loss not only to Naga people but to all who valued his wisdom, humility and commitment to peace.
He showed that the wisdom of age, when joined with truth, compassion and humility, can become a powerful force for healing and reconciliation.
The association further acknowledged Iralu’s decades of work for Naga reconciliation, his association with FNR, his role as chair of Naga Reconciliation Commission, and his lifelong association with Initiatives of Change.
It also added that his home, Kerünyü Ki (House of Listening), which he shared with his wife Christine in Sechü-Zubza, became known as a place where people from different backgrounds could come together for dialogue, reflection and reconciliation.
SCAN further extended its deepest condolences to Christine Iralu, his children and entire bereaved Iralu family and prayed that God would grant them strength, comfort, and peace at this time of profound loss.
ENSA: The Eastern Naga Students’ Association (ENSA) in a condolence message remembers late Iralu as a man of wisdom, humility, integrity and unwavering dedication to welfare and betterment of Naga people, adding that throughout his life, he remained steadfast in his pursuit of peace, reconciliation, and justice, leaving an indelible mark through his selfless service and principled commitment to humanity.
ENSA further extended its deepest and heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, relatives, friends, colleagues and all those who mourn his passing and prayed that they find comfort, strength and solace in Almighty God, as well as in the cherished memories of his life and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.
KTCN: Kachari Tribal Council Nagaland (KTCN) stated that Iralu devoted several decades of his life to the cause of peace and reconciliation in the State and beyond, adding that through his tireless efforts, he encouraged dialogue, understanding, forgiveness and healing of divisions within Naga society.
KTCN also acknowledged with deep respect the immense contribution towards peace and harmony in the society, adding that his life and legacy would remain an inspiration to all who believe in peaceful coexistence, reconciliation, mutual understanding and lasting peace in our society.
KTCN further expressed its solidarity with the bereaved family, friends, colleagues and all those who mourn his passing and prayed that God Almighty would grant comfort, strength and peace to the bereaved family and give them grace to endure this great loss.
DDGIF: Dimapur District Gorkha Indigenous Forum (DDGIF) stated late Niketu Iralu devoted his life to peace and reconciliation and aspired to building a better society. DDGIF said it will always remember his wisdom, humility and dedication.
His legacy of reconciliation and hope would remain etched in Naga history and continue to inspire generations, stated the federation. The DDGIF prayed for the departed soul to rest in eternal peace and also prayed to the Almighty God to grant solace and strength to the bereaved family.
SNUNS: South Nagas Union of Nagaland State (SNUNS) has described late Niketu Iralu
as a revered elder and rare peacemaker devoted to unity and healing.
The union highlighted Iralu’s lifelong commitment to reconciliation, truth and peacebuilding, noting that his wisdom and moral courage had a profound impact on Naga society.
It acknowledged his role in fostering dialogue and harmony across communities and remembered him as a guiding figure whose contributions will continue to inspire generations.
The Union extended heartfelt sympathies to his family, expressing gratitude for his legacy of service and devotion to the Naga people.
It prayed for solace and comfort for the bereaved family during this difficult time, while affirming that his vision of unity and peace would remain a beacon for the community.
Friday, August 21, 2026