Itanagar, May 14;
Veteran indigenous leader, social reformer, and former Nyishi Elite Society (NES) president Dr. Bengia Tolum has passed away, leaving behind a lasting legacy of cultural preservation, social harmony, and indigenous empowerment in Arunachal Pradesh.
Widely regarded as one of the most influential indigenous voices of the state, Dr. Tolum devoted his life to public service and played a pivotal role in strengthening Nyishi identity, promoting indigenous traditions, and fostering unity among various tribal communities. As a senior leader of the Nyishi Elite Society (NES) and the Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum (AITF), he was instrumental in several important movements related to cultural preservation, inter-tribal peace, and community integration.
In recognition of his lifelong contribution to society, Dr. Tolum received several honours from the Government of Arunachal Pradesh, including an honorary doctorate in 2022 for his role in socio-cultural integration.
Following his demise, Chief Minister Pema Khandu expressed profound grief and paid rich tributes to the late leader. In a condolence message shared on social media, Khandu described Dr. Tolum as a “towering social reformer, cultural architect, and one of the most influential indigenous leaders of Arunachal Pradesh.”
The Chief Minister stated that Dr. Tolum’s immense contributions towards language, culture, education, and community integration have left a lasting impact on the state and its people. He further said that Arunachal Pradesh has lost a visionary leader and a true guardian of indigenous identity.
Khandu also extended his deepest condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for strength during the difficult time, while wishing eternal peace for the departed soul.
