Ukhrul, January 8, 2025: Hundreds of people from all walks of life gathered at Ukhrul Headquarters on Wednesday to pay their final respects to Chonthingla Shimray. The late Mrs. Shimray, wife of General Anthony Ningkhan Shimray-MC,VC, Longvibu (Commander-in-Chief) of the Naga Army, passed away at 10:30 AM on January 7, at CIHSR Referral Hospital, Dimapur after a brief illness. Chonthingla Shimray, a former Kilonser (minister), joined the Naga Army on April 1, 1981, and retired in 1992. She remained a steadfast supporter of the Naga Nation, serving with dedication, sincerity, and loyalty until her passing.
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Thuingaleng Muivah, General Secretary of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isak Muivah’s (NSCN-IM) in his condolence message described Chonthingla Shimray, “more than just a remarkable individual – she was a beacon of strength, resilience, and unwavering dedication.” Commending her national service since 1981, the Ato Kilonser paid tribute to Mrs. Shimray stating that “she lived a life of extraordinary purpose, devoting herself to every task and cause with unmatched zeal and sincerity. Her indomitable spirit and selflessness were an inspiration to everyone who crossed her path.”
Ato Kilonser, Th. Muivah further remarked that Mrs. Shimray “was like a daughter-someone who held a special place in my heart and in my family’s life. Her vibrant energy, compassionate soul, relentless pursuit of excellence, wisdom and wittiness remain etched in my memory. She carried out her duties both at home and abroad with grace, leaving behind a legacy of service and sacrifice that will forever be honored.”
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The Office of the Adjutant General, General Headquarters Naga Army, in its condolence message, described Mrs. Shimray as a pillar of strength and an inspiration. “Your wife was your rock, your partner, and your best friend. Her loss is a tremendous blow to your family and to the Naga Army. May her exemplary memories continue to inspire you to lead the Naga Army with courage, wisdom, and compassion. The Naga Army shares the pain and grief with your family and prays for strength and solace to overcome this tragedy. May the Lord rest her soul in eternal peace.”
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The Naga People’s Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) also mourned her passing, remembering her as a compassionate and resilient figure. Known lovingly as ‘Achon,’ she was praised for her dedication to the Naga cause and her courage during challenging times, including her pivotal role in raising a red alert when her husband, Anthony Ningkhan Shimray, was forcibly disappeared from Kathmandu Airport in 2010.
The NPMHR highlighted her unwavering resolve, stating, “Despite the persecution and trials, she remained confident that victory would come. Her legacy of grit and determination continues to inspire us. She ensured her children were nurtured and protected while actively managing responsibilities at home and beyond. Her untimely demise is a great loss for us all. We extend our deepest condolences to General Anthony Ningkhan Shimray and their children, Peter, Phiphi, and Jedi.”
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The Global Naga Forum, in their condolence message said the news of Chonthingla Shimray left many in a state of shock and disbelief and that her passing is an irreplaceable loss, not only to her family but also to the entire Naga nation.
GNF described Chonthingla Shimray as “a beacon of strength and an unwavering patriot who dedicated her life to the cause of the Naga people. Her sacrifices, wisdom, and relentless support for the Naga struggle will forever remain etched in our hearts. She was more than a wife and a mother—she was a true pillar of resilience, standing firm in the face of countless challenges and always advocating for justice and the rights of her people.” Honoring her selfless contributions and her enduring legacy as a Naga patriot, the GNF hoped that Chonthingla Shimray’s spirit continue to inspire us all to strive for unity, peace, and the fulfillment of the aspirations of the Naga people.
The United Naga Council (UNC) expressed deep sorrow, calling Mrs. Shimray an extraordinary person whose kindness and generosity touched many lives. “Her unwavering compassion, sacrifice, and dedication to the Naga cause will always be remembered. The world feels emptier without her warm smile and comforting presence. May her love and memory serve as a beacon of strength for her family and all who knew her.”
Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) described Chongtingla Shimray’s life as a shining testament to unwavering commitment and sacrifice for the Naga national cause. “As a devoted companion to Ningkhan Anthony Shimray, a stalwart of the Naga struggle, she stood as a pillar of strength and resilience. Her dedication and support not only bolstered her family but also inspired countless others in the Naga homeland to uphold the values of unity, perseverance, and dignity. The Federation remembers with profound respect her enduring contributions to the collective journey of the Naga people. Her sacrifices, both seen and unseen, in the pursuit of our shared aspirations for justice and self-determination, will remain etched in the hearts of the Naga community,” stated NSF paying its final tribute.
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The Naga Women’s Union paying tribute to Mrs. Shimray said that “her undaunted spirit for the cause of the Naga since her youthful days is indelible. She was exceptionally a responsible lady for the Naga Nation, sacrificed till her last breath.”
The All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM) said Chonthingla Shimray, kilonser, NSCN-IM, was a visionary leader, a charismatic and dedicated woman who tirelessly served the nation. “Her instrumental role in building a unified Naga nation will be etched in our memories forever; As a loving mother, she embodied simplicity, bravery, and courage, standing firm in times of trials and tribulations. “Her unwavering commitment to the Naga cause and her sacrificial love for her nation and family, especially her husband, inspired us all,” the Naga student said.
On behalf of the Rongmei Tribe in Manipur, the Rongmei Naga Council Manipur (RNCM) and its Frontal Organizations, Rongmei Naga Students Organization (RNSOM), Rongmei Naga Youth Organization Manipur (RNYOM) and Rongmei Naga Luh Phwam Manipur (RNLPM) condoled the demise of Chongtingla Shimray. Paying their greatest respect, the RNCM stated, “We mourn the passing of our selfless leader better half who embodied the values of courage, honor and loyalty. May Her memory continue to inspire us to stand united and strong.”
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People from various parts of Naga homeland, including the Poumai Naga Union (PNU) and its frontal organisation bid their final adieu and homage to late Chonthingla Shimray.
The Maring Students Union (MSU) expressed its “deepest condolences said Chonthingla Shimray was an extraordinary woman whose unwavering dedication to the Naga cause will be remembered with great reverence. She was not only a pillar of strength for her family but also an inspiration to all who cherish the ideals of unity, freedom, and justice for the Naga people. Her sacrifices and steadfast commitment to the struggle for Naga rights reflect her profound patriotism and courage.”
Condolence services were held on January 7 at Diphupar in Nagaland, followed by another at Ukhrul headquarters on Wednesday at 12 pm. Her mortal remains was later taken to her native village, Tashar, where she will be laid to rest.
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