On his 25th death anniversary, the mortal remains of late T.C.K. Lotha, were exhumed from Kohima on Friday and brought to Tsungiki village for his last journey.
The remains were taken in a procession to Chukitong Ground, Wokha, where a final memorial ceremony was held. Family members, public leaders, and representatives of various organizations delivered speeches, shared memories, and offered words of tribute. He was then finally laid to rest at the newly constructed resting place at Mmhorü Jüsü, Tsungiki — 25 years after his initial burial in Kohima.
Earlier, a prayer service was held at his former official residence in Kohima, followed by a commemorative gathering and dedicatory prayer at his native village, Tsungiki, in Wokha district. The event was attended by Shürhozelie Liezietsu, former Chief Minister, MLAs- Achumbemo Kikon, Y. Mhonbemo Humtsoe, former legislator Mmhonlumo Kikon and other dignitaries.
On behalf of the family, Mrs. Abeni T.C.K. and T. Thechamo Kikon addressed the gathering, expressing gratitude and remembrance. Representatives of various organizations also spoke during the ceremony, including Er.Mhondamo Ovung, chairman of Lotha Hoho, Orenthung Lotha, chairman of Lotha Officers’ Association, Lironthung Kithan of Lotha Students’ Union; Yanrenthung Kikon of Kikon Shentsüta Ekhüng, Renbomo Lotha, chairman of Chukitong Range Public Organizatio, T. Janthungo Kikon, chairman of Tsungiki Village Council and Khumkhothung Ngullie, who spoke on behalf of the in-laws of late TCK Lotha.
Born in 1934 to Thungyamo and Zubeni Lotha, late T.C.K. Lotha rose from humble beginnings to become the first IAS officer from the Lotha community, joining the Uttar Pradesh cadre in 1964. Throughout his illustrious career, he held several important administrative positions, culminating in his appointment as the Chief Secretary of Nagaland—a role he served with distinction until his retirement in 1997.
His journey into public service was defined by determination and academic distinction. Despite commencing formal education later, he pursued his studies across Chukitong, Imphal, Shillong, and Mumbai, ultimately earning a Master’s degree and an LLB.
He successfully cleared the UPSC examinations and went on to hold several prominent positions, including Joint Secretary (Home), Deputy Commissioner of Phek, Development Commissioner, and Home Commissioner. He also served as the Chief Electoral Officer and Director of the Administrative Training Institute.
Renowned for his calm leadership during turbulent times, particularly amid the challenges of insurgency in the 1990s, Lotha was instrumental in resolving complex border and village conflicts with wisdom and compassion.
His integrity and administrative acumen earned him national recognition, including the Jawaharlal Nehru Excellence Award (1994), the Rajiv Gandhi Excellence Award (1994), and the Shiromani Award (1996). In 1998, driven by a deep commitment to his people, he entered electoral politics.
Elected unopposed from the 37 Tiyi Constituency, and was appointed Cabinet Minister for Tourism and Border Affairs. His tenure, though brief, was marked by a vision to unify communities beyond the divisions of clan or village. He passed away while in office on February 3, 2000, at the age of 65.
As part of the 25th Anniversary observance, his remains were symbolically brought to Tsungiki where villagers gathered in remembrance. A special prayer was held at the newly constructed resting place at Mmhorü Jüsü, Chukitong, marking his final resting place.