Ukhrul, May 27: Octogenarian Peter Pheirei, Ex-MLA (1971) from Chingai Assembly Constituency, passed away on Tuesday at 4:00 a.m. at his residence in Viewland, Ukhrul.
Eighty-seven years old, Peter Pheirei was a man of quiet strength, unwavering faith, and deep love for his family and community. Born on March 4, 1938, in Phungcham Village, he lived a life of service and dedication until his peaceful passing on May 27, 2025.
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Peter Pheirei began his education at Phungcham Government L.P. School, where he studied in KG I and KG II. He continued his schooling from Class 3 to 9 at Ukhrul Government High School and completed his matriculation from Tolloi Academy in 1960. With a deep thirst for knowledge, he pursued higher education at Guwahati University, earning his P.U., B.A., M.A., and LL.B. degrees by 1969.
He began his career in education as Headmaster of Meluri High School, Nagaland, and later served as Headmaster of Raphei High School, both in 1968. His commitment to nurturing young minds led him to become a Lecturer in Political Science at Pettigrew College in 1969.
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Beyond academics, Peter Pheirei devoted himself to public service. He served as the Seasonal Secretary of the First Convention of the First United Naga Integration Committee and was elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) of Manipur in 1971.
His leadership extended into community organizations, where he served as President of the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) from 1987 to 1988. He also offered his legal wisdom as Legal Advisor to several organizations, including TNL, Tangkhul Youth Organisation, and Ukhrul Teachers’ Welfare Organisation. He later served as the Chief Justice of the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) from 2006 to 2007.
His legacy is one of leadership, learning, and love for his people. A man of great intellect, humility, and courage, he has left behind a path for others to follow and a story that will continue to inspire generations.
Peter Pheirei also authored several books, including Wung Tangkhul Customary Law (English version), Relation between the Tribals of Manipur and the Maharaja of Manipur Before and After 1825, Illegal, Unhistorical Trial of the Lord Jesus Christ (Christ the End of Law: Romans 10:4), Wung/Tangkhul Customary Law (Shiyan Chikan) (in the Tangkhul dialect), and Manipur Tribals Before and After 1895: Why the Sadar Hills?
A condolence service was held at TNL Hall, Ukhrul. Hundreds came to pay their last respects to the departed soul.
Khashim Vashum, Ex-Minister of Veterinary & Animal Husbandry and Transport, Manipur, in his condolence message, stated:
“My deepest condolences to the family of the late Peter Pheirei, Former MLA from the Chingai Constituency. May his soul rest in peace. As a former President and Chief Judge of Tangkhul Naga Long, Senior Advocate, and the youngest Tangkhul Naga MLA at the age of 32, his legacy will be remembered. His remarkable achievements as a leader and public servant will forever be cherished. Rest in peace, Lt. Peter Pheirei. My heartfelt tribute to a dedicated leader from Phungcham Village, 45th Chingai A/C, Ukhrul District. May his family find strength and solace.”
TNL President Sword Vashum stated:
“Peter Pheirei is a household name among the Tangkhul community. I have heard his name since my childhood days. His demise is a great loss for the Tangkhul community.”
His body was taken to his native place, Phungcham, and will be laid to rest on Wednesday.