Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister and senior BJP legislator Y Patton, speaking at the grand farewell program organized by the Ao Senden in Mokokchung town Wednesday evening, said that Imkong L Imchen was his “Achini,” a Lotha Naga term for “best friend.” Patton said that he and Imchen always called each other “Achini” and never by name. He shared that their friendship dated back to their college days in Shillong during the late 1970s. Both were elected to the Nagaland Legislative Assembly five times each.
Patton eulogized Imchen as a confidante, a brave leader who never wavered, and a trusted friend. He also recalled how they often humored each other for speaking on issues without restraint.
Becoming emotional as he recounted their last journey together in October, Patton offered words of comfort to the bereaved family, assuring them that he would always be there for them.
READ | Nagaland accords State Funeral to veteran leader Imkong L Imchen
He also read out a condolence message on behalf of the BJP Nagaland and laid a wreath as a mark of respect. Almost all BJP legislators in Nagaland, along with top party functionaries led by the State BJP president, accompanied Patton in Imchen’s cortege. They will also be attending the final funeral service in Mangmetong tomorrow.
Mokokchung bids farewell to Late Imkong L Imchen as mortal remains arrive home
The mortal remains of senior legislator Late Imkong L Imchen reached his hometown Mokokchung on Wednesday evening following the State Funeral held earlier in Kohima.
A farewell program was organized in Mokokchung town by Ao Senden, after which his mortal remains were taken to his private residence at Mongsenbai Ward, Mokokchung. The cortege then proceeded to his native village, Mangmetong, the same evening.
The final funeral rites will be conducted at Mangmetong village at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, where Late Imkong L Imchen will be laid to rest.
The Ao Senden, Watsü Mungdang, AKM, AWUMT, family members, and Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton spoke at the farewell program held at Police Point, Mokokchung. Several organizations also paid their tributes by laying wreaths.
Hundreds from all walks of life attended the farewell program. A number of political leaders and party workers also attended the program.
