A State Funeral was held on November 12 at the official residence of late Imkong L. Imchen, advisor for Information & Public Relations and Soil & Water Conservation, at Old Minister’s Hill, Kohima, to pay last respects to the veteran Naga leader who passed away in Guwahati on November 11, 2025.
The solemn ceremony was attended by chief minister Neiphiu Rio, deputy chief ministers Y. Patton and T.R. Zeliang, speaker Sharingain Longkumer, ministers, advisors, MLAs, senior government officials, representatives from civil society, BJP party leaders and hundreds of well-wishers.
Delivering his tribute, chief minister Neiphiu Rio described late Imkong L. Imchen as a man of principle, clarity and courage—one who spoke his mind and lived in honest service to the Naga people. Rio, recalling their long association, said Imchen devoted his life to public service and was known for his integrity and intellectual depth.
Rio said he had full confidence in Imchen during his tenure as chief minister, including during the 2003 political crisis and the 2008 President’s Rule. He described him as “a man of clear mind, upright and one of my most confident cabinet colleagues.”
He recounted visiting Imchen in hospital, recalling how the late leader, though in critical condition, opened his eyes and smiled. “His last smile, I believe, was his farewell—a sign of peace,” Rio said, adding that Imchen’s legacy should be remembered and passed on to future generations.
NLA Speaker Sharingain Longkumer described late Imkong as a towering figure whose life was marked by humility and dedication.
Calling him “a man of few words but strong vocabulary and matured reasoning,” Longkumer said Imchen’s service to health, education and environment reflected his vision for the people.
Speaking on behalf of the government, chief secretary Sentiyanger Imchen said late Imkong Imchen was a leader of remarkable qualities and strong public duty. He recalled his student leadership in Ao Students’ Conference and NSF, and his long tenure as legislator since 1993.
He said Imkong Imchen was an astute political leader with a grasp of ground realities, who worked fearlessly for his people. Recalling an incident at Mongsenyimti village, he said Imchen personally intervened to restore peace during a tense situation, demonstrating his courage and commitment.
Speaking on behalf of BJP, minister Temjen Imna Along described late Imkong as “a man of resilience, preparation and unyielding character.” He said Imchen remained disciplined and dedicated even after joining BJP, never missing a party programme. “His legacy of sincerity and hard work will continue to guide us,” Along said.
NSF president Mteisuding Nraang said Imchen, as general secretary of NSF (1983-1985), played a pivotal role in strengthening the student movement and uniting Naga youth.
In an emotional message, wife Alila Jamir said her husband passed away peacefully on November 11. She described him as “a man with a clean heart but strong words” and appealed for forgiveness if he had wronged anyone.
Delivering the message from the Word of God, Rev. Sentisashi Aier said Late Imchen lived a life of faith and public service. He said Late Imchen cherished fellowship and never missed an opportunity to attend church, adding that his faith was reflected in the humility and strength with which he faced every stage of life.
Having known him for over three decades, Rev. Aier said he had witnessed Imchen’s journey from a young and aspiring leader to a seasoned statesman who shaped his public life through sincerity, perseverance and discipline.
He urged the young people present to emulate these qualities, saying Imchen’s life was a model of how faith and commitment to one’s calling could go hand in hand. “He was a man who walked closely with God, and it was this faith that guided his words, decisions and leadership,” Rev. Aier said.
Soil & Water Conservation secretary Sarita Yadav and director of Information & Public Relations, Dzüvinuo Theünuo also spoke on behalf of their respective departments.
Commissioner & Secretary, IPR and Cooperation Orenthung Lotha, chaired the State Funeral program while invocation was pronounced by Temjen Sempo, pastor Kohima Ao Baptist Arogo. Representative from Mangmentong Senso Telongjen Kohima also shared words of remembrance for the late leader. Kohima Ao Telongjem president T. Chubayanger also spoke on behalf of the Ao community residing in Kohima.
The service concluded with prayers and the laying of wreaths by family members, state leaders and friends. A Guard of Honour was performed by the 10th NAP (IR) before the body was taken to his native village. Later in Mokokchung, a farewell programme in honour of late Imkong Imchen was held at Town Square (Police Point), upon the arrival of the cortege from Kohima.
Organised by the Ao Senden, the programme was attended by members of Mokokchung’s civil society organisations and the public of Mokokchung town.
Eulogies were delivered by representatives of Ao Students’ Conference, Watsu Mungdang, All Ward Union Mokokchung Town and Ao Senden. Deputy chief minister Y. Patton, who accompanied the hearse, also delivered an eulogy on behalf of the state government.
PM condoles demise of Imkong L Imchen
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday condoled the demise of veteran politician and advisor for Information & Public Relations, and Soil & Water Conservation, Imkong L. Imchen.
In a social media post, PM Modi said “Shri Imkong L Imchen Ji will be remembered for his outstanding contribution to Nagaland’s development. He had been active in public life for several years and was particularly passionate about the welfare of tribal communities.” He said that late Imchen’s legislative and ministerial tenures would be fondly remembered. Modi also said Imchen also contributed towards strengthening BJP in Nagaland. “My thoughts are with his family and supporters in this sad hour,” Modi said.