The Government of Nagaland announced with deep sorrow the passing of Imkong L Imchen, Advisor for Information & Public Relations and Soil & Water Conservation. He passed away in Guwahati on November 11, 2025.
The Home Department has informed that a State Funeral will be held to pay the last respects and homage to the late Advisor. The funeral service is scheduled for November 12, 2025, at 9:30 A.M. at his official residence, MHI3, Old Ministers’ Hill, Kohima. The funeral service will be streamed live at the official YouTube channel of DIPR Nagaland.
The Government of Nagaland and various leaders and organizations have expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Imkong L Imchen.
Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla expressed his deep sadness at the sudden demise of Imchen. He described him as a dedicated and sincere leader who served the society in many capacities, including student leader, public leader, Cabinet Minister, and Advisor. On behalf of the people of Nagaland and himself, the Governor extended his deepest condolences to the bereaved family, praying for strength and solace during this difficult time.
Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio recalled his long association with Imchen, describing him as a warm, cheerful, and outspoken visionary leader who was never afraid to express his opinions and always stood up for what he believed in. Dr Rio said, “In his passing, the Ao community and the Naga people have lost a stalwart leader, and the void he leaves behind will be difficult to fill.” On behalf of the government, he conveyed deepest condolences to the family and prayed for eternal peace for the departed soul.
The Directorate of Information & Public Relations, Kohima, expressed deep sorrow at losing a veteran statesman and one of the senior-most members among the State’s legislators. It noted Imchen’s personal interest in the department’s growth and his encouragement of professionalism and use of modern communication tools. The department extended heartfelt condolences and prayed for strength for the family.
Minister for Health & Family Welfare, Paiwang Konyak, described Late Imchen as a statesman of rare character, known for his humor, openness, and fearless voice. He highlighted Imchen’s legacy of honesty, service, and compassion, which will continue to inspire generations. He extended deepest condolences to the family, colleagues, and constituents.
Advisor H Sethrongkyu expressed profound sadness over the loss of a seasoned statesman and five-time MLA from Koridang constituency. He praised Imchen’s service in various ministerial roles and his dedication to preserving Nagaland’s heritage and strengthening government-citizen communication. He extended deepest condolences and gratitude for his decades of service.
Advisor for Tribal Affairs and Election, H Tovihoto Ayemi, mourned the passing of a towering political figure and personal inspiration. He recalled Imchen’s unwavering commitment and remarkable leadership. On behalf of the people of 1 Dimapur-I Assembly Constituency and himself, he extended deepest condolences and prayed for eternal peace.
Ao Senden: The Ao Senden expressed deep shock at the untimely demise of Late Imkong L Imchen, MLA and Advisor for Information & Public Relations and Soil & Water Conservation. Ao Senden said he was a leader who rose from grassroots and dedicated his life to public service throughout his social and political life. He served as Vice President (1993-94) and President (1994-96) of Ao Senden. The organization described him as dynamic, down-to-earth, and committed to the advancement and development of Nagaland. The Ao Senden conveyed its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for peace for the departed soul.
Naga People’s Front: The NPF expressed profound grief over the passing of one of Nagaland’s senior legislators. Imkong L Imchen was first elected from Koridang Assembly Constituency in 2003 and served five consecutive terms. The NPF said his contributions in governance, transparency, and rural development remains deeply appreciated and will continue to inspire future generations. The party extended deepest condolences to the family, praying for strength and peace for the departed soul.
Janata Dal (United), Nagaland: JD(U) Nagaland mourned the loss of Imkong L Imchen, describing him as a remarkable leader known for his bold and straightforward approach. His tireless dedication to the people of Nagaland and commitment to justice will be remembered, it said. The party expressed sympathy to his family and friends and honored his legacy of courage and integrity.
Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee: The NPCC conveyed deep sadness at the passing of Imkong L Imchen, recalling his service as Vice President of the NPCC and President of the District Congress Committee, Mokokchung. His contributions to the party and public life will be cherished, NPCC said. It extended condolences to his family with prayers for strength during their grief.
BJP Nagaland: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Nagaland, mourning the passing of Imkong L Imchen, said that he was known for his sharp intellect, administrative skill, and deep commitment to the welfare of the people. It said he remained connected to the grassroots and was admired for his integrity and leadership and that his untimely demise is a tremendous loss to his family, friends, the political fraternity, and the people he served.
On behalf of BJP Nagaland, President Benjamin Yepthomi expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for strength and comfort.
Ex-Parliamentarians Association of Nagaland: Ex-PAN expressed shock and sorrow at the demise of a senior legislator and veteran politician. It said that Imkong L Imchen was recognized for his blunt and straightforward leadership since his student days in the 1980s. Having represented Koridang for five terms, Ex-PAN said his loss was felt across Nagaland. Ex-PAN extended deepest condolences to his family, praying for strength and eternal peace for the departed soul.
K Therie: K Therie expressed deep shock and sadness at the passing of Imkong L Imchen. He recalled their two decades of association in public service and praised Imchen’s courage and dedication, adding that his passing is a great loss to Naga society. K Therie extended heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family and prayed for comfort and peace for the departed soul.
Kohima Press Club: The Kohima Press Club (KPC) expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Imkong L Imchen, Advisor to the Department of Information & Public Relations, who died on November 11 in Guwahati. The KPC remembered him as a veteran politician, respected leader, and a good friend. They recalled their last meeting in August, noting his strong commitment to addressing media challenges in Nagaland. The KPC conveyed their deepest condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for strength, peace, and comfort during this difficult time. They affirmed that his legacy as a visionary leader will always be remembered.
Dimapur Press Club: The Dimapur Press Club (DPC) expressed sadness at the passing of Senior Legislator and Advisor Imkong L Imchen on November 11 in Guwahati. The Club extended heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. They remembered his years of public service and the significant impact he made in regional politics. The Club prayed that his soul rest in eternal peace and that his family find strength and comfort in their cherished memories.
Mokokchung Press Club: The Mokokchung Press Club (MPC) conveyed profound grief over the loss of Imkong L Imchen, a veteran statesman and one of Nagaland’s most respected political leaders. The MPC acknowledged his decades of exemplary leadership, integrity, and deep concern for public welfare. The MPC appreciated his contributions to governance and his cordial relationship with the media fraternity and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for strength and comfort, wishing eternal peace for the departed soul.
Naga Students’ Federation : The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) expressed deep grief and profound sadness over the passing of Late Imkong L. Imchen. NSF said Imchen was a towering figure whose life was marked by unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and a strong commitment to the welfare of the Naga people. His journey from student leader to seasoned statesman reflected his lifelong pursuit of truth, justice, and the collective aspirations of the Naga community, NSF said.
During his tenure as General Secretary of the NSF, Late Imchen played a pivotal role in strengthening the student movement. NSF said his dynamic leadership and pursuit of unity among Naga youth greatly shaped the Federation’s mission and that he will be remembered as a leader who stood firm in his convictions, guided by an unshakeable belief in the Naga cause and the power of collective youth action.
As a public representative and Advisor to the Government of Nagaland, NSF said he upheld values of sincerity, courage, and integrity. NSF said his voice carried weight in the political sphere, and his actions reflected a deep sense of responsibility and that he served as a mentor and inspiration to many young Nagas, touching lives through humility and wisdom.
The NSF acknowledged his immense contributions to the student community and society at large and extended heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.
Ao Students’ Conference: The Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) expressed deep sadness over the passing of Late Imkong L Imchen, Advisor and five-time MLA from the 28 Koridang Assembly Constituency.
AKM said he was a visionary leader and son of the soil who dedicated his life to serving the Naga people. It added that his contributions to the student community, especially during his tenure as AKM President (1982-84) and NSF General Secretary (1983-85), will always be remembered.
“Late Imkong L. Imchen was a blunt and fearless leader, and among the most ardent supporters of the Ao Students’ Conference. His passing is an irreparable loss not only to the Ao community but to the entire Naga people,” AKM said.
AKM extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, praying for strength and peace during this difficult time.
