Nagas receive Niketu Iralu’s mortal remains as organisations remember his lifelong commitment to peace, dialogue and reconciliation
DIMAPUR — Dimapur Airport turned into a place of tribute on Wednesday as members of the public and various Naga organisations gathered to receive the mortal remains of veteran Naga peace activist and reconciliation advocate Niketu Iralu, fondly known as Uncle Niketu—a man whose life was devoted to peace, dialogue and reconciliation. Iralu, 91, passed away in New Delhi on Tuesday afternoon following a brief illness.
As the mortal remains arrived, speakers remembered Iralu in different ways—as an advocate, statesman, teacher, philosopher and, above all, a voice for peace and reconciliation. One speaker observed that “the epithets are endless”, while the gathering was described as an occasion to honour a man who had dedicated his life to the pursuit of peace.
The reception was organised by Khonoma Rüffüno Nagaland, with Angami Public Organisation, Tenyimi Peoples’ Organisation (TPO), Naga Council Dimapur (NCD), Chakhroma Public Organisation and Fellowship of Naga Baptist Associations delivering messages of remembrance.
Also read: Remembering Niketu Iralu: The peace messenger who helped heal a wounded society
Nagaland’s voice of peace, Niketu Iralu, receives Lifetime Achievement honour
Speakers described Iralu as “our dearly beloved brother and leader” whose work centred on peace and personal transformation among Naga communities and beyond. He was also remembered as a rare voice for peace during turbulent times.
TPO president Timikha Koza said it was rare to find a person like Iralu, recalling his emphasis on restraint and reflection during conflict.
“There are many who will say open fire, do this. But Uncle Niketu would say please wait, please think properly,” Koza said, describing Iralu as a statesman of maturity whose counsel Nagas needed today.
The NCD expressed “profound sadness and grief” over the death of the veteran peace activist and social reformer.
It recalled Iralu’s contribution to bringing conflict-ridden Nagaland towards peace and normalcy, saying his efforts would remain part of Naga society’s history.
The council also recalled his contribution to the NCD, stating that the land on which its office building on Nyamo Lotha Road stands was originally owned by his father, Dr. Sevilie Iralu. The council said Niketu Iralu later magnanimously exchanged the land, enabling it to secure financial support for its functioning.
Representatives of various Naga organisations at the reception said Nagaland had lost an important guiding voice at a time when his message of dialogue and reconciliation remained deeply relevant. They urged people to uphold his ideals of peace, truth, reconciliation and unity.
The funeral service of Iralu will be held at 12 noon on Thursday, August 20, at Spicer Hall, Shalom Bible Seminary, Sechü-Zubza.