Itanagar, May 14, 2026: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Thursday expressed deep sorrow over the demise of noted indigenous leader and social reformer Bengia Tolum.
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| Dr. Bengia Tolum |
In a condolence message, Chief Minister Pema Khandu described Dr. Tolum as a “towering social reformer, cultural architect, and one of the most influential indigenous leaders of Arunachal Pradesh.”
Khandu stated that Dr. Tolum dedicated his life to public service and played a major role in strengthening Nyishi identity, preserving indigenous culture, and promoting unity among various communities in the state.
He noted that as a former long-serving leader of the Nyishi Elite Society and current president of the Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum, Dr. Tolum was instrumental in several historic movements aimed at social harmony, cultural preservation, and inter-tribal peace.
The Chief Minister further highlighted that Dr. Tolum had received multiple recognitions from the Government of Arunachal Pradesh, including an honorary doctorate in 2022 for his contribution towards socio-cultural integration.
“He will be remembered for his immense contributions to language, culture, education, and community integration, which have left a lasting legacy in Arunachal Pradesh,” Khandu stated, adding that the state has lost “a visionary leader and a true guardian of indigenous identity.”
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Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein also expressed grief over the veteran leader’s passing and said Dr. Tolum worked tirelessly for the welfare, rights, and identity of indigenous communities through his leadership in the Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum.
Mein said the late leader’s contributions towards society and the state would always be remembered.
Both leaders extended condolences to the bereaved family, friends, colleagues, and admirers, while praying for eternal peace for the departed soul.
