The Kohima District Administration, in partnership with the Kohima Press Club, organised a memorial tribute in honour of late Niketu Iralu at the DC’s Conference Hall, Kohima, on August 27.
On behalf of the citizens of the district, the Kohima District Administration dedicated an inscription in honour of late Niketu Iralu, remembering him as the “Conscience Keeper of the Naga People.” The inscription pays tribute to his lifelong commitment to peace, dialogue, reconciliation, humility and moral courage. It highlights his contributions through Initiatives of Change, the Naga National Reconciliation Commission, the Forum for Naga Reconciliation and Kerünyü Ki, Sechü-Zubza.
Quoting his message, “Nagas must learn to love one another and forgive one another,” the inscription honours his enduring legacy of compassion, non-violence and peaceful coexistence, while conveying condolences to his family.
Deputy Commissioner, Kohima, B Henok Buchem, NCS, paid tribute to Iralu, describing him as a respected scholar, writer and thoughtful voice of Nagaland who dedicated his life to peace, reconciliation, dialogue and the well-being of the Naga people. He said Iralu’s writings and public engagement had offered wisdom and guidance on the challenges and future of Naga society.
Buchem said that with Iralu’s passing, he had personally lost someone whose wisdom and guidance he needed most. Describing him as the “conscience keeper of the Naga people” in the contemporary era, he said posterity would pause and marvel that such a man had once walked the soil of Nagaland. He conveyed heartfelt condolences to Iralu’s family, friends and all those mourning his passing, while calling upon people to celebrate a life that had given much to society.
Superintendent of Police, Kohima, Krodi Rhetso, IPS, described Iralu as a man of high moral integrity, deep understanding, selflessness and a profound commitment to peace. He said Iralu’s life and work had enriched, influenced and inspired those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Rhetso said Iralu had left behind a legacy of peaceful coexistence and goodwill, demonstrating that conflicts could be resolved through dialogue, negotiation, forgiveness and reconciliation. He also urged people to reflect more deeply, be mindful of themselves and others, and strive to overcome judgments and differences by cultivating understanding, acceptance and inner peace.
Speaking at the memorial tribute, Kevipulie Iralu, son of late Niketu Iralu, shared personal recollections of his father’s life, education, travels and commitment to peace and social work. He recalled his father as a strong-willed yet shy person whose Christian faith, sense of justice and extensive travels shaped his worldview.
His exposure to Moral Re-Armament, now known as Initiatives of Change, led him to choose a life of social work and peacebuilding. Kevipulie also reflected on their personal relationship and his own decision to pursue a career in IT, saying that, with time, he had come to see his father’s life and contributions in a different light.
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He described his late father as someone who found his calling through person-to-person relationships, quiet reflection and listening to God’s guidance, and expressed gratitude to all those who honoured his father and remembered his legacy.
President of the Kohima Press Club, Vishü Rita Krocha, presented a brief biography of Iralu and recited a poem in his memory, followed by a mass silent tribute.
A short film, “A Tribute to Niketu Iralu,” was screened by Neithonuo Tungoe, Creative Head, Take One, who recalled Iralu’s humility, simplicity, humour and ability to make people feel valued.
Under “As I Knew Him: A Tribute,” Alice Yhoshü, Advisor, Kohima Press Club, remembered Iralu as an observant, compassionate and humble person who encouraged peaceful relationships and reminded people to rise above selfishness, ego and pride.
Seyiekietuo Keretsü, General Secretary, Kohima Press Club, recalled Iralu as a respected thinker and moral voice who emphasised gratitude, forgiveness, truth and choosing what is right over what is easy. He also remembered Iralu’s warmth and humour, saying his legacy lay in the values he lived by and encouraged others to uphold.
Representing the Phom community, the President of the Kohima Phom Union read out a condolence message, noting that Iralu’s steadfast vision and work would continue to impact people.
The gathering also observed Iralu’s favourite hymn, “Search Me, O God,” while a special musical tribute, “A Supuo La,” was presented by Meneno Chücha.
Dr Riku Khutso, NCS, Extra Assistant Commissioner, Kohima Sadar, chaired the programme. The programme concluded with a sharing and prayer led by Rev. Dr. Ruokuovilie Sachü, President, Kohima Baptist Pastors’ Fellowship.
The memorial brought together members of the press fraternity, district administration, Kohima district officers, community representatives, friends and well-wishers to remember the life, work and enduring contributions of Niketu Iralu.
