Dimapur, February 5 (MExN): Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Speaker of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly Sharingain Longkumer and the Naga People’s Front (NPF) have expressed sorrow over the demise of Nkhao Lotha, former minister and former MLA of the 39-Sanis Assembly Constituency, who died on February 5 in Dimapur after a prolonged illness.
In a condolence message issued on February 5, the Chief Minister said he was deeply pained to learn of the passing of Nkhao Lotha and described him as a hardworking and selfless leader who consistently placed the welfare of the people above all else. He recalled that before entering politics, Nkhao Lotha served the state government as a police officer and discharged his duties with sincerity and dedication, particularly in maintaining law and order. Referring to his personal association with him, the Chief Minister said Nkhao Lotha was known to be simple, humble, approachable and genuinely committed to public service. He stated that the Lotha community and Naga society had lost a respected leader and inspiring figure whose contributions and legacy would always be remembered. The Chief Minister, on behalf of his family as well, conveyed condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for strength and comfort for them during the time of grief.
Meanwhile, Speaker of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly Sharingain Longkumer, in a condolence message, expressed profound sorrow over the demise of Nkhao Lotha and said his life was marked by a long and distinguished career in public service. The Speaker stated that Nkhao Lotha began his professional career in the Police Department and served in various responsible positions across the state with integrity and distinction, earning recognition including the Indian Police Medal. After years of service in the police, he entered public life and was elected to the tenth Nagaland Legislative Assembly from the 39-Sanis Assembly Constituency, where he served as minister in charge of Soil and Water Conservation and Border Affairs. The Speaker said Nkhao Lotha remained a humble and dedicated leader, deeply connected to his roots and to the people he represented, and that his contributions both as a disciplined officer and as a legislator would be remembered with gratitude and respect. On behalf of himself and the members of the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly, the Speaker extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed that the departed soul may rest in eternal peace.
The Naga People’s Front, in a condolence message issued by its Press Bureau, recalled that Nkhao Lotha was elected to the Nagaland Legislative Assembly on the NPF ticket during the 2003–2008 tenure and stated that he served the state with dedication and responsibility. The party noted that in the later phase of his political career, he joined the Indian National Congress, where he was denied a party ticket and subsequently contested the election but was not elected. The NPF said his contributions to public life and governance would be remembered with respect and gratitude.
According to the NPF, the funeral service will be held on February 6 at his native village, Pangti. The send-off programme will take place at 8:00 a.m. from his residence in Dimapur. His mortal remains will be taken to Pangti via Kohima, with a brief stopover at Wokha town before proceeding to Pangti.
