Special CorrespondentĀ
Ukhrul, April 3:
Amid deep sorrow and emotional unity, thousands of people gathered at the Ukhrul Headquarters Ground, Wino Bazar, on Wednesday to pay their last respects to four Naga Army cadres who were killed in an ambush on March 28 at Hongbei Junction under Kasom Block in Kamjong district.
The massive public condolence service was organised under the aegis of the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) along with its frontal organisations, following a series of consultations with bereaved families and Tangkhul civil society leaders led by TNL President Sword Vashum.
The programme, which commenced around 3 pm, witnessed an overwhelming turnout of Ukhrul residents who came together in mourning and solidarity. The fallen cadres were identified as Major Sochipem Phungshok, Sgt. Major Zairei Vasah, Sgt. Bahnle Ahlahpya, and Sgt. Thansomi Vashi. Emotional scenes marked the ceremony as the community collectively honoured the sacrifices of the deceased.
Speaking on behalf of the bereaved families, Ningrin Phungshok, brother of late Major Sochipem Phungshok, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the public for their unwavering support, prayers, and contributions during the difficult period of grief. He remarked that the tragic Hongbei incident could become a turning point for peace and reconciliation within the Tangkhul community, urging all sections to rise above differences and work towards unity.
Condolence speeches were delivered by leaders representing various Tangkhul organisations, including TNL, TNAL, TSL, TKS, TMNL, Longphangs and the Eastern Flank.
The speakers collectively expressed profound anguish over the loss of Naga national workers and called for calm, reflection, and collective responsibility in preserving communal harmony.
The opening prayer was pronounced by Rev. Ephraim Shaiza of PBC Thahao, while Rev. Zaklei, Pastor of Phungyo Baptist Church, conducted the final condolence rites before the mortal remains were formally handed over to the respective families.
With the successful completion of the public condolence service, tensions and uncertainty that had gripped Ukhrul town over the past several days subsided peacefully. Authorities and civil society leaders subsequently announced the revocation of the shutdown, allowing normal life in Ukhrul to gradually resume.