Dimapur, July 31 (MExN): Condolences poured in from political parties, elected representatives, civil society organisations, student bodies and Naga political groups following the demise of Naga Mothers' Association (NMA) President Vilanuo Angela Yhome on July 31, with many remembering her as a steadfast advocate for peace, reconciliation and Naga unity.
The Naga People's Front (NPF) said it was deeply saddened by the passing of Yhome, describing her as “a pillar of strength, compassion, and wisdom for Naga society.” It stated that as president of the NMA, she dedicated her life to upholding the dignity of Naga women, promoting peace and advocating for the welfare of children and families across Nagaland. The party said her “leadership, courage, and unwavering commitment to justice and social causes will be remembered for generations to come,” while extending condolences to her family and the NMA.
The NPF Central Women Wing also mourned her demise, describing Yhome as “a God-fearing leader, compassionate in nature and a woman of noble character and integrity.” It said her sincerity, dedication and selfless service to Naga women and society would always be remembered with respect and gratitude, adding that “the Naga women have lost a visionary women leader, a refined social activist, and a guiding light.”
Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton, in a social media post, said he was “deeply saddened” by Yhome's passing and noted that she had dedicated herself to the welfare of the people, making “a lasting contribution through her service and leadership.” He and his family extended condolences to her family, friends, colleagues and members of the NMA, praying for strength and comfort during their bereavement.
Rajya Sabha MP S Phangnon Konyak described Yhome as “a towering personality who dedicated her life to the service of society until her last breath.” In a social media post, Konyak said Yhome would be remembered for her selfless contributions and exemplary public service, adding that “her passing leaves an immense void” while expressing gratitude for her life and enduring legacy.
MLA and Advisor for Industries & Commerce Hekani Jakhalu, and MLA and Advisor for Labour, Employment & Skill Development and Excise Moatoshi Longkumer also paid tributes and conveyed condolences to the bereaved family.
Earlier, the Naga Students' Federation (NSF) expressed “profound grief and heartfelt condolences” over Yhome's demise, describing her as “not merely the President of the Naga Mothers' Association but a motherly figure to all Nagas.”
The federation said she devoted her life to the service of the people and championed the causes of peace, justice, reconciliation and the dignity of every Naga. It acknowledged her contributions towards strengthening the social fabric of Naga society, stating that her dedication to the welfare of women, children, youth and the larger Naga community had left “an enduring legacy that will continue to guide and inspire future generations.”
The National Socialist Women's Organisation of Nagalim (NSWON) also mourned her passing, stating that her death had created “a void that will be difficult to fill.” It described Yhome as “a symbol of integrity, compassion and steadfast devotion to the right, dignity and aspirations of the Naga people,” adding that her tireless service and leadership strengthened “the collective spirit of the Naga nation.”
The NSCN-K (Niki) said it was “deeply anguished and heartbroken” by her passing while expressing gratitude for having known “a good soul.” It described her as “a true daughter of the soil” who worked tirelessly for Naga unity beyond political differences.
According to the statement, Yhome travelled “through the jungles of Burmese occupied Naga Lands” on several occasions to spread the message of unity and love and consistently advocated for the unity of the Nagas regardless of political ideology or leadership. It added that “once every generation, there comes a selfless individual that leaves a lasting and exemplary impression on its Nation,” describing Yhome as one such individual whose legacy of fostering unity would continue to inspire future generations.
The Federal Government of Nagaland (NNC/FGN), led by Kedahge Zhopra Vero, described Yhome as “a godly and God-fearing woman whose life was a shining testimony of faith, humility, courage, and selfless service.”
The statement noted that as President of the Naga Mothers' Association, she faithfully embodied the organisation's slogan, “Shed No More Blood,” and worked to heal divisions, end rivalries and foster unity among the Naga people. It termed her passing “an immeasurable loss” while expressing hope that her legacy would continue to inspire the pursuit of peace, justice, reconciliation and unity.
Meanwhile, the KUDAWHI Union, Dimapur expressed profound grief over Yhome's demise, remembering her exemplary leadership, compassion and commitment to the welfare of the Naga people, particularly women and society at large.
The union said her dedicated service and tireless efforts earned her respect and admiration from people across all walks of life and added that her legacy would continue to inspire future generations.
