Kohima: The Kohima District Administration and the Kohima Press Club gathered at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall on August 27 to honor the life of Niketu Iralu. A dedicated peacemaker and writer, Iralu served as a guiding voice for reconciliation in Nagaland until his death on August 18 in Delhi. He was 89.
Deputy Commissioner B Henok Buchem called Iralu the conscience keeper of the Naga people. Superintendent of Police Krodi Rhetso noted his commitment to moral integrity. "His life and works have enriched, influenced and inspired all those who had the privilege of knowing him," Rhetso said.
Born on July 12, 1935, in Phek, Iralu was one of thirteen children of Dr. Sevilie and Vituno Iralu. He spent 65 years with the Initiatives of Change organization, traveling globally to study conflict resolution. He returned home to focus on local healing. In 2004, he chaired the seven-member Naga National Reconciliation Commission. He also served as the first director of the Mount Gilead Home for rehabilitation in Sechü-Zubza.
Alice Yhoshü, advisor to the Kohima Press Club, recalled his deep love for reading and his humility. Journalist Seyiekietuo Keretsu highlighted Iralu’s belief that Nagas should take pride in their identity without arrogance. Rev. Dr. Ruokuovilie Sachü delivered a religious tribute during the event.
Iralu lived at his home, Kerünyü Ki, also known as the House of Listening, in Sechü-Zubza. The memorial included a video screening, musical performances, and a moment of silence. Attendees sang his favorite hymn, Search Me O God. His son, Kevipulie Iralu, represented the family during the proceedings.
Updated at 28th August 2026 at 1:50pm
Iralu was a native of Khonoma Village. His mother was the elder sister of A. Z. Phizo. Despite his father, Dr. Sevilie Iralu, being a non-political figure, the family faced constant suspicion and mistrust due to their connection to Phizo. These early experiences shaped Iralu’s understanding of the trauma and complex regional perspectives he later worked to address.
The district administration installed a permanent inscription at the hall naming Iralu the Conscience Keeper of the Naga People. Beyond his reconciliation work, Iralu served as a leading voice for the Forum for Naga Reconciliation to stop fratricidal violence. He famously declined several awards, including honorary doctorates, throughout his life. He was a vocal proponent of social reform, often arguing that Nagas should avoid fighting over the fruits of the Naga tree, which would only lead to its destruction.
During the event, Vishü Rita Krocha, president of the Kohima Press Club, read his biography and a poem. Other contributors included Neithonuo Tungoe, who provided a short film, and the Phom community, which conveyed formal condolences. The musical tribute featured a performance of A Supuo La by Meneno Chücha, with Neimenuo Kuotsu as cantor, Er. Neilhoukholie Chielie on violin, and Vimezo Iralu on piano.
Comments