Mongchua Khiamniungan, the first among the Khiamniungan Naga tribe to be elected to the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, who passed away on January 26, was laid to rest on Wednesday following a funeral service at his residence in Pathso Nokeng.
Late Mongchua was a pioneering political leader and the first MLA from 57th Thonoknyu Assembly Constituency as well as the first MLA from his community. He is also the father of the sitting MLA Benei M Lamthiu. He passed away at the age of 87 following a brief illness.
The veteran politician was largely considered a visionary leader, educationist at heart, and an advocate of his people, and his demise was mourned by the community. Various individuals, organisations and political parties have extended condolences to the bereaved family expressing grief and fond memories.
Born in Pathso Nokeng, Mongchua Khiamniungan was a persona whose life was marked by many firsts. In 1973, he became the first matriculate from Pathso Range, setting an inspiring example for future generations at a time when access to formal education was limited in the region. His academic achievement laid the foundation for a lifetime of leadership and public service.
In 1974, he created history by becoming the first MLA and minister from the Khiamniungan community, and also deputy minister after winning the Thonoknyu seat in the state assembly elections. His victory marked a significant chapter in the political history of the region, giving the Khiamniungan people their first direct representation in the state legislature.
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Beyond electoral politics, Mongchua Khiamniungan played a pivotal role in community leadership and social organizations. He served as president of the Khiamniungan Students’ Union, Noklak Headquarters (1971–1972), where he actively championed student welfare and unity. His leadership extended to Tuensang Town, where he held several key positions, including member of Tuensang Town Council (1980-1982), Executive Chairman of the Khiamniungan Union Tuensang Town (1983–1993) and later president of the Khiamniungan Union, Tuensang Town (1994–1996). His long association with community bodies reflected his concern for social cohesion and collective progress. He also served as treasurer of the Pathso Nokeng Union, Tuensang Town (1995–2008), contributing his experience and guidance over more than a decade.
From 2014 to 2017, he held the position of president of the Khiamniungan Tribal Council, where he worked to strengthen tribal unity and preserve cultural values. His engagement in broader regional issues was further reflected in his role as a Central Executive Committee (CEC) member of the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) from 2015 to 2017. His services and active role begun to earn the trust of his people both in politics and social services.
In the political sphere, Mongchua Khiamniungan also served as president of the BJP Tuensang District (2000–2003).
His family members and close friends fondly remember him as a kind, generous, and soft-spoken soul whose humility touched countless lives. Though a towering figure in public life, he carried himself with grace and compassion, always placing people before position. His words were few but meaningful, and his presence brought comfort and reassurance to those around him. As the community mourns his passing, his legacy of service, kindness, and unwavering dedication will continue to live on in the hearts of the people he served.
