Our Reporter
Dimapur, Jan. 25 (EMN): Several leaders, dignitaries and well-wishers paid their last respects to the former member of Rajya Sabha and Padma Shri award recipient, Melhüpra Vero, at a send-off programme held at the Agri Expo, 4th Mile in Dimapur, on January 25.
Vero passed away at around 6.30 am on Friday at his residence in Walford, Dimapur after a brief illness. He was 87, and is survived by his wife, Kerele Vero and two children, a son and a daughter.
Speaking on behalf of the family, the son of late Vero, Joseph Vero expressed gratitude to all who extended their support and prayers during their hour of grief. He said that his late father was a hardworking man who gave them all he could to live a good life. He described him as a person who loved learning something new every day.
Former chief minister of Nagaland KL Chishi, in his condolence message, shared that he first met late Vero and his wife 52 years ago, when he founded the Naga Students’ Union in Mumbai. He added that the deceased loved literature, and enjoyed reading anecdotes, proverbs and quotes.
Chishi also described him as a person of truth and integrity, and that Nagas were very fortunate to have him represent the community in Delhi back then.
Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change and Parliamentary Affairs CM Chang, member of NLA Kuzholuzo Nienu, peace activist Niketu Iralu, representatives from NSCN (I-M) and NSCN (K), Western Sumi Hoho, Western Chakhesang Hoho, Chakhesang community of Walford colony and a host of well-wishers and church leaders also spoke at the send-off programme.
Following the programme, his mortal remains were taken to his hometown in Runguzu village, under Phek district for funeral to be held on January 25.