ITANAGAR, May 17: The Galo People’s Federation (GPF) has expressed profound grief over the demise of two eminent personalities of Arunachal Pradesh — noted social reformer Dr Bengia Tolum and former Deputy Commissioner Kemo Lollen.
Dr Tolum passed away on May 14 at the age of 69, while retired Deputy Commissioner Kemo Lollen breathed his last on May 16.
In its condolence message, the Federation described the deaths as an irreparable loss to the state, stating that Arunachal Pradesh had lost “an architect of indigenous identity and a sentinel of compassionate governance” within three days.
Remembering Dr Tolum, the GPF said he was a visionary leader who played a historic role in the “Dafla to Nyishi” movement and dedicated his life to preserving indigenous identity and culture. A six-term president of the Nyishi Elite Society (NES) and former president of the All Nyishi Youth Association (ANYA), he developed the Nyishi script, authored textbooks for classes VI to VIII, founded Abotani Academy at Yazali in 1993. Served as the first president of the Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum (AITF), he worked to unite community bodies on equal footing through dialogue and consensus.
Paying tribute to Late Kemo Lollen, the GPF said he was known for his humility, compassion, and dedication to public service. Born on April 15, 1960 at Tadin village in West Siang district to Late Kike Lollen and Late Resok Ngomdir Lollen, he began his career as a lecturer at IGGC, Tezu from 1990 to 1993 before joining the administrative service to work for the welfare of people in remote areas.
The Federation fondly remembered him as “Abo Kemo, Asi Kemo,” describing him as a people-centric officer who remained deeply connected to society despite holding positions of power.
The GPF conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for eternal peace of the departed souls.