Ukhrul: Nagas across borders have expressed profound shock and extended condolences following the tragic deaths of two Tangkhul youth leaders in a road accident in Manipur’s Kamjong district on Thursday.
The deceased, identified as Themmaso Tallanao, president of the Tangkhul Mayar Ngala Long (Tangkhul Youth Council), and Masothing Mungshon, the council’s assistant general secretary, lost their lives after a vehicle accident near Shingcha village, close to the Indo-Myanmar border.
A third individual, Mingyao Raising from Theiva village, who was driving the vehicle, sustained a broken leg in the crash.
The accident occurred while the youth leaders were on duty as part of the Naga Students’ Federation’s Reconnaissance Mission to assess the impact of the abrogation of the Free Movement Regime in Chandel, Ukhrul, and Kamjong districts.
In a heartfelt condolence message, NSF President Medovi Rhi lauded the dedication and courage displayed by the two leaders. “The Federation mourns the irreplaceable loss of these two esteemed leaders, whose contributions to the Naga cause will forever be remembered. Their passing leaves a void that words cannot fill, but their legacy will continue to inspire the Naga youth and the broader Naga community in our collective pursuit of justice, peace, and sovereignty,” Rhi stated.
The NSF, an apex body of Naga student unions across borders, extended its sympathies to the bereaved families, the Tangkhul community, and all impacted by the tragedy.
The Federation directed all its federating units to lower their flags to half-mast at their respective headquarters from October 24-25 as a mark of respect.
The Global Naga Forum also mourned the loss, describing the two as “warriors” dedicated to protecting the Naga people. “They were en route to the Myanmar border, ready to stand tall against the fencing that cuts through the heart of our Naga soul, and instead, it is their lifeline that was severed. It’s a punch to the gut—a reminder that the fight for our land, our history, and our future doesn’t come without its casualties,” the Forum stated.
The Forum further noted, “These weren’t just community leaders; they were our frontliners, embodying everything the Naga spirit stands for—courage, duty, and defiance in the face of division. Their sacrifices set the bar for how far we must be willing to go for our people.”
Ukhrul MLA Ram Muivah expressed deep sorrow over the sudden loss, describing the two leaders as “dynamic youth leaders of impeccable character, courage, and conviction.” He praised their selfless service and dedication to the Naga cause, emphasizing that their legacy will be fondly remembered.
Numerous organisations, associations, and individuals also extended condolences, expressing solidarity with the families of the deceased. As a mark of respect, all schools and colleges under the Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong (TKS) jurisdiction remained closed on Friday.
In a testament to their impact, thousands gathered for a condolence service at Ukhrul district’s Town Hall to pay their last respects to the two youth leaders, who will be remembered as steadfast advocates of the Naga community and its aspirations.
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