Abu Metha, Angami Gazetted Officers’ Krotho mourn the passing of Menukhol John

DIMAPUR — Advisor to Chief Minister and Chairman of the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), Abu Metha, and the Angami Gazetted Officers’ Krotho (AGOK) have condoled the demise of Menukhol John, retired principal secretary, Government of Nagaland, who passed away at his residence in Lerie Colony, Kohima, on Friday.

In his condolence message, Metha described Late Menukhol John as “a distinguished bureaucrat, a fine gentleman, and a dear friend.” He said John was an efficient officer whose professionalism and dedication set high benchmarks for all.

“A person of vast knowledge and wide experience, he served the State and its people with commitment and distinction. His cheerfulness was infectious, and he had a way of lifting spirits even in the most challenging of times,” Metha stated.

According to a DIPR report, he added that beyond his bureaucratic responsibilities, John played contributory roles in many sectors of society. He had a keen interest in youth activities, sports, and charitable causes, and “his feet were always firmly on the ground”. Metha said John connected effortlessly with people from all walks of life, earning the respect and affection of everyone who knew him.

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Metha recalled working closely with John at the Chief Minister’s Office and during their time together in the COVID War Room. “His warmth, humour, and camaraderie will always be remembered. His passing is a great loss to our society, for he still had much to contribute,” Metha said. He conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and offered prayers for strength and comfort to his loved ones and well-wishers.

AGOK, in a separate message, expressed deep sadness over the demise of John and noted that he was a well-known figure in the association since he entered government service and was regarded as a mentor, guide, and source of encouragement owing to his valuable insights and understanding of governance.

The message stated that John valued the association highly and worked closely with it even after retirement. His sincerity and integrity, it said, impacted not only government functioning but also the association and community. Due to his amiable and approachable nature, his absence was always noticeable and missed in social gatherings, particularly at government events.