Former Nagaland Governor PB Acharya passes away

Padmanabha Balakrishna Acharya, an astute politician, who also served as Governor in 5 Northeast states, breathed his last in Mumbai today. A pall of gloom descended at his home in Andheri West as the news of Acharya’s demise at the age of 92 years came in.

Acharya’s connect with Northeast is indeed special as he had served as Governor of Nagaland, Tripura, Assam, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh.

He was appointed Governor of Nagaland on July 14, 2014. Between December 2014 and August 2016, Acharya held additional charge as Governor of Assam.

He was also the Governor of Tripura from July 2014 till May 2015. Besides, Acharya was also given additional charge as the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh on 26 January 2017.

He was also given additional charge as the Governor of Manipur in the absence of Najma Heptulla for a few weeks in July 2019.

PB Acharya served as Governor of Nagaland July 2014 to July 2019.

Born on October 8, 1931, in Karnataka’s Udupi, Acharya completed his school and college education there before coming to Mumbai and acquiring a law degree from the University of Mumbai.

Prior to becoming a Governor, PB Acharya had held positions in Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad and BJP. He was one of the pioneers of development and national integration in Northeast India.

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio expressing his condolences via a post on X said, “Deeply saddened to learn about the demise of Shri P. B Acharya Ji, former Governor of Nagaland. He had the distinction of serving with three CMs of Nagaland.
On behalf of the Govt. of Nagaland, I extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved family members. May his soul RIP.”

Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton condoling the demise of Acharya in a social media post said, “Saddened by the news of the demise of former Governor of Nagaland, Shri PB Acharya Ji. His contributions to our state and the people will always be remembered. He was a man of wisdom, compassion and integrity, who served as a bridge between various groups and communities. I pray for his soul and for strength to his family in this hour of grief!”

Nagaland cabinet minister and BJP leader Temjen Imna Along condoled the death of Acharya. In a post on X he said, “With profound sadness, we bid farewell to Padmanabha Balakrishna Acharya, the 18th Governor of Nagaland. His unwavering dedication and leadership have left an indelible mark on our state.
As he departs for his heavenly abode, we remember his contributions and extend heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.
May his soul rest in eternal peace. “