Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday expressed grief over the death of Nagaland Governor La. Ganesan who passed away in Chennai at the age of 80.

Taking to X, the Prime Minister wrote: “Pained by the passing of Nagaland Governor Thiru La. Ganesan Ji. He will be remembered as a devout nationalist, who dedicated his life to service and nation-building. He worked hard to expand the BJP across Tamil Nadu. He was deeply passionate about Tamil culture too. My thoughts are with his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”

La. Ganesan, a former Rajya Sabha MP, passed away in Chennai on Friday evening at the age of 80. He had been undergoing treatment at Apollo Hospitals for a serious head injury sustained after a fall at his residence at T Nagar in Chennai on August 8.

Despite intensive medical care and surgery, he breathed his last at 6.23 p.m.

According to hospital sources, Ganesan was found unconscious at home and rushed to the ICU. Doctors detected internal injuries caused by the fall, and although surgery was performed, his condition remained critical.

Over the past week, his health continued to deteriorate until he succumbed to his injuries.

Born in Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu, La. Ganesan began his political journey through the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) before joining the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Known for his organisational skills and unwavering loyalty to the party, he rose to become the president of the Tamil Nadu BJP and later represented Madhya Pradesh in the Rajya Sabha.

Over the decades, he was actively involved in strengthening the BJP’s base, especially in southern India, and was respected for his straightforward and disciplined approach.

In August 2021, he was appointed Governor of Manipur, a post he held until February 2023. During this period, he was also entrusted with additional charge as the Governor of West Bengal between July and November 2022.

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On February 20, 2023, Ganesan assumed office as the 19th Governor of Nagaland, where he continued to serve until his demise.

Throughout his gubernatorial assignments, Ganesan was seen as a steady Constitutional authority, maintaining cordial ties with state governments while upholding the Centre’s directives.

His tenure in Nagaland was marked by engagement with various stakeholders on developmental issues, and he was appreciated for his approachable demeanour.

NTN adds:

Dy CM Y Patton, NPP Nagaland condoles

Deputy Chief Minister of Nagaland, Y Patton, has expressed deep shock and sadness over the passing of the Governor of Nagaland, La. Ganesan.

He said that Ganesan’s tenure in Nagaland was marked by dedicated service to the people and a firm commitment to strengthening harmony, promoting development, and upholding the aspirations of the citizens. His leadership reflected integrity, humility, and an unfaltering focus on public welfare.

Patton said, Ganesan consistently demonstrated the ability to engage with people across communities, fostering unity and trust. His administrative acumen was complemented by a sincere understanding of the needs of the people, and his efforts to build inclusive connections were widely respected, he added.

The Deputy Chief Minister and BLP Leader, on behalf of his family and the people of Nagaland, extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and friends of the late Governor.

“His legacy of service will remain a guiding light, and his memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him,” he further said.

NPP & NPYF:

President and entire rank and file of National People’s Party (NPP) Nagaland has expressed condolences on the demise of Governor of Nagaland La Ganesan.

“His passing is a profound loss not only to the State of Nagaland but to the entire nation. La Ganesan was a statesman of exceptional integrity, a guiding light whose leadership was marked by humility, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to public service,” the NPP said in a condolence message.

The NPP said during his tenure as the Governor of Nagaland, he worked tirelessly to uphold the values of unity, peace, and progress, earning the respect and affection of the people he served.

In this moment of grief, the NPP stood in solidarity with his family, friends, and all who mourn his loss and prayed that the Almighty grants them strength and solace during this difficult time, and that his noble soul may rest in eternal peace.