Eastern Mirror Desk
Dimapur, Dec. 12: The Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM) Vice Chairman, Khole Konyak passed away at a hospital in New Delhi on Wednesday.
The 87-year-old veteran Naga freedom fighter died at around 2:30 pm in the national capital on Dec. 12 after suffering a stroke. It is reported that he had been on life support since Tuesday before breathing his last due to a brain haemorrhage.
The mortal remains of Gen (retd) Khole Konyak will arrive in Dimapur on Dec. 14 and will be taken to NSCN-IM’s headquarters Hebron for condolence service, according to a source. It was further learned that he would be laid to rest in Tobu, his native village in Mon district, although the date has not been confirmed.
Naga community in Delhi has planned to organise a condolence programme in honour of Gen. (retired) Khole Konyak at 4 pm on Dec. 13 at Nagaland House, APJ Abdul Kalam Road. The programme will be moderated by Rev. Rocky Maram, pastor of Church of Hope, followed by singing of Naga Anthem.
Ato kilonser, Th. Muivah, senior members of the GPRN, representatives from Government of India, DENSU, NSUD, and Naga tribe units are expected to speak during the programme.
Khole, former president of NSCN (Unification) joined NSCN (IM) in 2016 and was sworn in as the vice-chairman of the insurgency group on May 19 the same year. He had been actively involved in Naga political movement since 1950s.
“I have realised and taken the right decision to join the only correct national line under the leadership of Chairman Isak Chishi Swu and General Secretary Th Muivah of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim,” Khole was quoted as saying by Business Standard after he joined NSCN (IM).
Condolence messages
Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) has expressed grief over the death of the Naga leader.
“The legend has gone! One of the most decorated Naga freedom fighters, who from a young age, spanning over seven decades, gave everything for the Naga nation has written Naga history by the life of the Gen (Retd) Khole Konyak. Indeed, a testament for the Nagas of all generations. He is gone but his spirit is alive and will live until Naga aspiration becomes tangible,” wrote FNR in a condolence message.
It said “Gen (Retd) Khole Konyak advocated and stood for Naga reconciliation and unity till his last breath and today we are reaping his commitment to Naga reconciliation,” adding that “The Forum for Naga Reconciliation salutes Gen (Retd) Khole Konyak and with deep respect pray for his eternal rest in the arms of the One whom he loved and remained faithful. Our prayers are for his family members and the government he leaves behind that peace that passes all human understanding will be theirs to have in such a time.”
Message from NDPP
The Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) has said in a statement that it is saddened at the news of the demise of Gen. (Retd) Khole Konyak, the Vice Chairman of the NSCN (IM) after a brief illness.
“Late Gen. (Retd) Khole Konyak joined the Naga freedom movement in the early 1950s and dedicated his entire life in the service of the Naga Nation shouldering every responsibility given to him in humility and loyalty, delivering his best,” read a message sent by NDPP president Chingwang Konyak.
“Today, as the Naga people mourn the passing of a great son of the soil, the rank and file of the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party joins me in conveying our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. May the departed soul rest in eternal peace!” wrote Chingwang.
Message from Leader of the Opposition
“It is with deep sadness and anguish that I along with my family, extend heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members of Gen (Retd) Khole Konyak who passed away today at New Delhi. As a Naga National Worker, Late Khole Konyak was a tall Naga leader who rendered his service in various capacities and was sworn in as the Vice-Chairman of NSCN-IM on May 17, 2016,” wrote Nagaland Leader of Opposition T.R Zeliang in a statement.
“His dedication to the cause of the Nagas and support for the Indo-Naga Peace talk as the only acceptable foundation for survival of the Naga people will be ever remembered. His demise is a great loss to the Nagas and the vacuum created by it will be difficult to fill. I pray that the Almighty grant peace and solace to all his near and dear ones during this time of pain and grief,” he added.
