Ukhrul: In a heartfelt condolence messages, the Naga community beyond borders have mourned the tragic loss of two Tangkhul youth leaders, Themmaso Tallanao, President of Tangkhul Mayar Ngala Long (TMNL), and Masothing Mungshon, Assistant General Secretary TMNL. Both leaders died in a fatal accident while en route to the Indo-Myanmar border on Thursday morning around 10:30 AM.
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The Naga Students Federation in a condolence message said it is deeply shocked and saddened by the untimely demise of Themmaso Tallanao and Masothing Mungshon. NSF said, “At the time of their passing, they were fulfilling their duty as part of the NSF Reconnaissance Mission to Ukhrul and Chandel, to assess the implications of the abrogation of the Free Movement Regime. Their commitment and dedication to the cause of the Naga people in this perilous endeavor are a testament to their courage and deep sense of responsibility.” The NSF has extend its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the Tangkhul community, and all those impacted by this tragic incident. The apex body of the the Naga students in the region, while mourning the demise of the two leaders describing it as “irreplaceable loss”, in honour of their sacrifice and service to the Naga community as directed all its Federating Units and Sub-ordinate Bodies to observe the following:
Hoist the Unit flag at half mast at the respective headquarters from 24th to 25th October 2024.
Close all offices of the Federating Units and Sub-ordinate Bodies on 24th and 25th October 2024 as a mark of respect for the departed leaders.
The Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong (TKS), mourning the tragic death of the two leaders has declared that all educational institutions, including schools and colleges, operating under its jurisdiction to remain closed on October 25, as a mark of respect and mourning for the loss of the two dedicated youth leaders. “These two patriots gave their lives in the line of duty, against the Indo-Myanmar border fencing and Free Movement Regime (FMR). Their sacrifices serve as a solemn reminder of the ongoing struggle to protect our homeland, and we must honor their memory with dignity and gravity it deserves,” TKS President Ramreichan Keishing in a declaration issued on Thursday said. The apex Tangkhul Student Union has appealed to all the educational institutions to observe October 25 as a day of mourning to express solidarity for the Naga cause and the deceased families. “We trust that the community will stand united in paying tribute to these fallen heroes, whose contributions to our shared cause will never be forgotten,” TKS added.
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In a condolence message, Chuba Ozukum, Convenor, the Global Naga Forum, Saluting the Fallen: Defenders of Naga Unity, described the demise of the two Tangkhul leaders as “frontlines of the Nagas— embodying everything that the Naga spirit stands for: courage, duty, and defiance in the face of division.” Stating that they were not just community leaders, Chuba Ozukum said it “mourns not only their untimely departure but the unfinished chapters of the cause…” The Global Naga Forum expressed grief, vowing to continue the fight for Naga unity and freedom that the two leaders championed. “They have passed, but the fight they lived for is very much alive. Their sacrifices are viewed as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for Naga rights and land, leaving an enduring legacy that will inspire future generations, GNF added. GNF further said that the loss “is an unfathomable wound to our collective spirit, but their legacy will fuel the fire for Naga unity and freedom.”
The Mao Students’ Union has expressed its deepest condolences in the tragic accident, terming it a profound loss for the Naga community. The MSU said it stands in solidarity with the Tangkhul Youth Council as it extended its heartfelt support to the bereaved families. In its condolence message the MSU said that the two Tangkhul youth leaders demonstrated “unwavering commitment and service,” adding that the two’s “contributions and leadership will be sorely missed.”
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The Raphei Katamnao Long (RKL) also has condoled the demise of the leaders. In honor of late Themmaso Tallanao, President of TMNL who hailed from Loree Kaju village for his significant contributions, RKL in solidarity with his family, has requested all schools under its jurisdiction to remain closed on October 25, Friday. “This will allow us to collectively mourn and pay our respects to his memory,” RKL added.
The Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNS) also has expressed its profound sorrow over the untimely and tragic passing of the two leaders.
“This devastating loss of two remarkable leaders has deeply affected the Naga community. “Themmaso Tallanao and Masothing were not only leaders but also beacons of hope and dedication for the Naga people. Their contributions, vision, and steadfast leadership in the pursuit of justice and peace have left a lasting impact that will continue to inspire generations, especially the Naga youth.” The DNSU while reaffirmed its commitment to carry forward their legacy, further said, “Although these leaders are no longer with us, their spirit and the work they championed will remain alive in our hearts and in the ongoing efforts to realize the vision they fought for.” The Dimapur Naga Students’ Union announced that its office will remain closed on October 25, Friday in honor of these two leaders, as a mark of respect and mourning for their invaluable service to the Naga cause.
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The District Administration, Kamjong also has shared his deepest heartful condolences to the bereaved families. “No words can ease the pain caused by the lost of these visionary and promising leaders. Their invaluable contributions to the society shall be cherished and remembered timelessly,” said Rangnamei Rang Peter, Deputy Commissioner of Kamjong District.
The Tangkhul Mayar Ngala Long seeking the support, prayers, and guidance of the public during this difficult time said that the mortal remains of the deceased will be kept at TNL Hall tonight, with a condolence service to be held on October 25 at Ukhrul Town Hall.
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