DAPORIJO, Nov 1: Veteran traditional priest and former Zilla Parishad Member (ZPM) Mada Lingdam Dobin passed away at his residence in Forest Colony, Daporijo, in Upper Subansiri district on October 31 following a prolonged illness. He was 77.
Born on June 27, 1949, to Late Guma Lingdam and Late Rumjar Gumsar Dobin, Dobin was widely respected for his knowledge of traditional priesthood, forthright nature, courage and contributions to community life.
He served as the first president of the Priests' Association of Upper Subansiri district and played an important role in preserving and promoting indigenous traditions, cultural values and customary practices.
Besides his religious and cultural contributions, Dobin was actively involved in grassroots governance. He served as a Gram Panchayat Member and Anchal Samity Member before being elected as a Zilla Parishad Member for the 1989–1994 term, representing the then undivided Giba, Chetam and Nilling circles.
He also made notable contributions to the development of the region, particularly in advocating for the establishment of the Giba circle administrative office and facilitating road connectivity between Menga and the Giba circle headquarters, along with Late Riaknia Jita Leriak Tamin.
Remembered as a straightforward yet compassionate person, Dobin earned the respect of the people through his dedication to public service, community welfare and indigenous cultural heritage. His demise is being mourned as a major loss to the Bagang community and the people of Upper Subansiri district.
He leaves behind three wives, eight sons, two daughters, three grandsons and six granddaughters. His last rites will be performed at his residence in Forest Colony, Daporijo, on November 2 in accordance with traditional customs.
Social worker Dosh Dasi Tamin expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, describing Dobin's demise as an irreparable loss to the community. He said his contributions to traditional priesthood, grassroots democracy and community development would remain etched in the collective memory of the people.
He prayed to Goddess Anv-Donyi to give strength and courage to the bereaved family to overcome their grief and prayed for eternal peace for the departed soul.