Kohima: Prominent peace activist Niketu Iralu passed away in New Delhi on August 18. He was 91. Born on July 12, 1935, in Sechu Zubza, Kohima district, Iralu died following a cardiac arrest after being admitted to BLK Hospital. His funeral service took place the same evening at 9:30 PM at the Nagaland State Guest House in R.K. Puram, Delhi. His remains are slated to arrive in Nagaland on August 19.
Iralu spent seven decades pushing for reconciliation. He served as a guiding force for the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR). Colleagues remember him as a mentor and a bridge-builder who addressed political and ethnic divides with courage. The Naga People’s Front described him as a towering figure of compassion and moral clarity.
His work earned several accolades. These include the 2025 Initiatives of Change International Lifetime Achiever Award, the 2023 Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Integration Award, the 2019 Distinguished Senior Citizens Award, and the 2018 Rotary Peace Award.
Rev. Dr. Wati Aier of the FNR paid tribute to the activist, stating, "Uncle Niketu’s unwavering commitment to justice and his unvarying support for every cause of human rights marked him as a rare moral personality in our times."
Rosemary Dzuvichu of the Naga Mothers' Association noted his mentorship, recalling his efforts to foster peace between communities. Academic Wetshete Joseph Thopi remembered him as a humanist who remained down-to-earth despite his massive influence. The peacebuilder’s work focused on personal transformation, non-violence, and healing. His loss leaves a deep vacuum in Naga society.
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