Nagaland’s senior most legislator Noke Wangnao passes away at 87

Nagaland’s senior most legislator Noke Wangnao, passed away this morning at the age of 87. He was also the Advisor to the Nagaland Department of Social Security and Welfare. He was fondly callex Papa Noke.

Noke Wangnao won the Assembly elections 9 times from the Tapi Assembly constituency under Mon district in 1974, 1977, 1982, 1987, 1989, 2003, 2013,2018, and the 2023. He had also served as a minister holding several key portfolios in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly.

He passed away at the Christian Institute Of Health Sciences & Research (CIHSR) in Dimapur, where he was taken after he said he was feeling unwell. He has been suffering from several health issues for some time now.

Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton condoled Papa Noke’s death and highlighted his contribution to the state’s progress.

“Deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Hon’ble Advisor for Social Welfare, Shri Noke Wangnao, this morning at CIHSR. His unwavering dedication to the well-being of the people and unyielding commitment to bettering our State will stand as a lasting legacy. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, and supporters during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace!”, Y Patton wrote in X.

Deputy Chief Minister T R Zeliang also conveyed his grief at the demise of the senior most legislator and wrote in X, “I am deeply saddened and grieved to hear about the demise of Shri. Noke Wangnao, Advisor Social Welfare Dept. The senior most serving MLA in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly with a total of 9 (Nine) successful elections since 1974. A man of few words and filled with the virtue of humility, his demise is a huge loss for the people of the State. Extending my sincere condolences to the bereaved family. May the departed soul Rest in Peace.”

Rajya Sabha MP S Phangnon Konyak also expressed her condolences by sharing a post on X and wrote, “I am at loss for words at the demise of Hon’ble Advisor for Social Welfare, Shri Noke Wangnao. In his demise, we have lost a fatherly figure and a dedicated leader of the masses. His simplicity and down to earth nature was what made him stand out among the rest. His service to the people will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. May the departed leader’s soul rest in peace.”

He did his Class 10 from Assam University (Sivsagar) in 1967 and Pre University from St.Edmunds College, Shillong.

He is survived by 2 sons and 4 daughters.

He started his political career in 1974 as a UDF candidate from Tapi. He won the seat and became a member of the 3rd Nagaland Legislative Assembly. Since then, he has won the Tapi seat 8 more times till 2023.

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