Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh offers last respects; tribal bodies call for accountability and shutdown during final rites
Imphal: The Government of Manipur has declared a three-day State Mourning in honour of late Vungzagin Valte, MLA of the 56–Thanlon Assembly Constituency, who passed away on February 21, 2026. As per an official order issued by the General Administration Department under the Governor’s directions, mourning will be observed across the State from February 22 to 24.
During this period, the National Flag will fly at half-mast on all government buildings, no official entertainment will be held, and full Police Honours will be accorded at his funeral in recognition of his public service and contributions.
Valte, the sitting legislator from Thanlon, passed away at Medanta Medicity in Gurugram after prolonged medical treatment. He had suffered grievous injuries in a mob assault in Imphal on May 4, 2023, during the early phase of ethnic violence in the state.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh paid his last respects shortly after arriving in the national capital. He laid a wreath, stood in silence before the mortal remains, and offered floral tributes. A prayer service and condolence meeting were later held in the presence of MLAs, community leaders and members of the Zomi community.
Meanwhile, Valte’s death has reignited demands for justice from several Kuki-Zo civil society groups. The Committee on Tribal Unity alleged serious security lapses surrounding the 2023 attack and appealed to the Supreme Court of India and investigative agencies to ensure accountability. The group also announced a total shutdown in Sadar Hills during the return of his mortal remains and final rites.
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