TA Ngullie, a former minister and eight-time MLA of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA), passed away today in Dimapur. Except for the sixth House, Ngullie represented the 37-Tyui Assembly Constituency from the first to the ninth NLA.
His demise has elicited condolences from various political leaders, including Nagaland Assembly Speaker Sharingain Longkumer, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Deputy Chief Ministers Y Patton and TR Zeliang, Advisor and BJP MLA Imkong L Imchen, and state units of the Congress and Lok Janshakti Party. They expressed their sadness at the loss of a prominent leader.
According to Imchen, he was one of the last ‘past pioneer politicians’ of the Nagaland State.
Ngullie served the state in several capacities, including Minister in charge of Finance, Revenue, and Electricity in 1982, and Minister of Agriculture, Horticulture, and Irrigation in 1989. He also held the positions of Deputy Speaker and Leader of the Opposition, demonstrating unwavering dedication to the development of Nagaland.
Speaker Longkumer remarked that Ngullie’s compassion for the underprivileged and his lifelong contributions have left an indelible mark on the state. He conveyed his deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences on behalf of the 14th NLA, stating that the void left by Ngullie’s passing would be challenging to fill.
Chief Minister Rio emphasized that Ngullie’s contributions to the growth of Nagaland and its people would always be remembered. He noted that both the Lotha community and the Nagas as a whole have lost a fatherly figure and guardian, adding that the emptiness created by his departure will be difficult to overcome.
Vanthungo Odyuo, State NCP President, described Ngullie as one of the most observant and knowledgeable leaders he had encountered. “One of his greatest qualities was that he was a good listener. He was a compassionate and humble leader, always mindful of his roots and never allowing power to distance him from the people he represented. His life is a testament to true leadership,” Odyuo stated.
“A distinguished leader who served as Finance Minister and held several terms as Congress MLA, his rich legacy of dedicated public service and leadership will be deeply missed. His contributions to the people of Nagaland will forever be remembered,” Nagaland Congress said.
“A remarkable leader, whose contributions and dedication have left an indelible mark in our community. His wisdom, compassion and tireless commitment to service have been an inspiration to all who knew him,” Deputy CM TR Zeliang said of Ngullie.