Family members, along with well-wishers from far and near, came together in solemn tribute to honour the enduring legacy of Lt. T.C.K. Lotha on his 25th death anniversary. Remembered as a visionary leader, distinguished administrator, and pioneering public servant, a prayer service was held at his former official residence in Kohima, followed by a commemorative gathering and dedicatory prayer at his native village, Tsungiki, in Wokha district. As part of the observance, his remains were exhumed from Kohima and brought to Tsungiki village for a special prayer service. From there, they were taken to Chukitong Ground, Wokha, where a final memorial ceremony was held.
Family members, public leaders, and representatives of various organizations delivered speeches, shared memories, and offered words of tribute. He was then finally laid to rest at the newly constructed resting place at Mmhorü Jüsü, Tsungiki — 25 years after his initial burial in Kohima.
The event was attended by Shürhozelie Liezietsu, Former Chief Minister of Nagaland, MLA, Achumbemo Kikon, MLA Y. Mhonbemo Humtsoe, former MLA Mhonlumo Kikon, besides other dignitaries.
On behalf of the family, Abeni T.C.K. and T. Thechamo Kikon addressed the gathering, expressing gratitude and remembrance. Representatives of various organizations also spoke during the ceremony, including Er. Mhondamo Ovung, Chairman of the Lotha Hoho, Orenthung Lotha, Chairman of the Lotha Officers’ Association, Lironthung Kithan of the Lotha Students’ Union; Yanrenthung Kikon of the Kikon Shentsüta Ekhüng, Renbomo Lotha, the Chairman of the Chukitong Range Public Organizatio, T. Janthungo Kikon, Chairman of the Tsungiki Village Council and Khumkhothung Ngullie, who spoke on behalf of the in-Laws of Lt.TCK Lotha.
Born in 1934 to Thungyamo and Zubeni Lotha, late T.C.K. Lotha rose from humble beginnings to become the first Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the Lotha community, joining the Uttar Pradesh cadre in 1964. Throughout his illustrious career, he held several important administrative positions, culminating in his appointment as the Chief Secretary of Nagaland—a role he served with distinction until his retirement in 1997.
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His journey into public service was defined by determination and academic distinction. Despite commencing formal education later than most, he pursued his studies across Chukitong, Imphal, Shillong, and Mumbai, ultimately earning a Master’s degree and an LLB. He successfully cleared the UPSC examinations and went on to hold several prominent positions, including Joint Secretary (Home), Deputy Commissioner of Phek, Development Commissioner, and Home Commissioner. He also served as the Chief Electoral Officer and Director of the Administrative Training Institute.
Renowned for his calm leadership during turbulent times, particularly amid the challenges of insurgency in the 1990s, Lotha was instrumental in resolving complex border and village conflicts with wisdom and compassion. His integrity and administrative acumen earned him national recognition, including the Jawaharlal Nehru Excellence Award (1994), the Rajiv Gandhi Excellence Award (1994), and the Shiromani Award (1996).
In 1998, driven by a deep commitment to his people, he entered electoral politics. Elected unopposed from the 37 Tiyi Constituency, he was appointed Cabinet Minister for Tourism and Border Affairs. His tenure, though brief, was marked by a vision to unify communities beyond the divisions of clan or village. He passed away while in office on February 3, 2000, at the age of 65.
A man of deep Christian faith, Lotha was known for his unshakable spiritual devotion. A founding member of the Naga Students’ Union in Shillong and former President of the Lotha Students’ Union, he was also a deacon at the Kohima Lotha Baptist Church. He often drew strength from scripture, especially Psalms 121 and 91, during the most challenging periods of his life and service.
As part of the 25th Anniversary observance, his remains were symbolically brought to Tsungiki where villagers gathered in remembrance. A special prayer was held at the newly constructed resting place at Mmhorü Jüsü, Chukitong, marking his final resting place.
