Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Condoles Demise of Eminent Social Leader Shri Bengia Tolum
Itangar : The Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Shri Pema Khandu, has expressed profound grief over the untimely demise of Shri Bengia Tolum, an eminent social leader, distinguished academician, cultural icon, and one of the principal architects of socio-cultural integration in Arunachal Pradesh.
Describing his passing as an irreparable loss, the Chief Minister stated that the demise of Shri Bengia Tolum is not only a great setback for the Nyishi community, but also for the entire state of Arunachal Pradesh. He noted that Shri Tolum’s lifelong dedication to social service, cultural preservation, and community empowerment has left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire generations.
Shri Bengia Tolum devoted his life to the service of society with exceptional vision, wisdom, and commitment. As the founder and long-serving leader of several apex community organisations, including the Nyishi Elite Society (NES) and the Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum (AITF), he played a historic role in fostering communal harmony, strengthening indigenous identity, preserving tribal heritage, and promoting peace and unity among Arunachal Pradesh’s diverse tribal communities.
Recalling his personal association with the late leader, Chief Minister Shri Pema Khandu said that Shri Bengia Tolum shared a close friendship and strong bond with his late father, former Chief Minister Shri Dorjee Khandu Ji. He stated that during their years of public life, both leaders worked tirelessly for the dignity, upliftment, and empowerment of the Nyishi community.
The Chief Minister highlighted one of the most significant milestones achieved during that period—the successful removal of the derogatory term “Dafla” from the Constitution of India and the restoration of the rightful identity and pride of the Nyishi people. He described this achievement as a historic victory that remains a matter of immense pride for the community and a testament to Shri Bengia Tolum’s relentless efforts.
Shri Khandu also fondly remembered their close association and collective efforts towards accelerating development in Nyishi-inhabited areas. Guided by their shared vision of inclusive and balanced growth, several new districts, including Pakke-Kessang, Kamle, and Keyi Panyor, were created to ensure better governance, improved administrative accessibility, and holistic development of remote regions.
He remarked that Shri Bengia Tolum’s unwavering support, invaluable guidance, and steadfast commitment to these transformative initiatives would always be remembered with deep respect and gratitude.
At this moment of profound sorrow, the Chief Minister extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members, relatives, admirers, and the entire Nyishi community.
He prayed to the Almighty to grant strength and courage to all those grieving this irreparable loss and to bestow eternal peace upon the departed soul.
“Shri Bengia Tolum’s immense contributions to society, culture, and the collective identity of Arunachal Pradesh will forever remain etched in the history of the state,” the Chief Minister said.