On Friday, Vungzagin Valte, a 61-year-old MLA from the Kuki-Zo community in Manipur, passed away at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram after a prolonged battle with injuries sustained during ethnic violence in May 2023. Valte, who represented the Thanlon constituency in Churachandpur, was attacked by a mob in Imphal on May 4 while returning from a meeting with Chief Minister N Biren Singh. Following his injuries, he was airlifted to Delhi for advanced treatment and returned home in April 2022; however, his health continued to decline, and he became wheelchair-bound and struggled with speech. On February 7, 2023, his condition worsened, leading to an ICU admission at Churachandpur Medical College. Chief Minister Singh monitored his health closely, arranging necessary medical support. Despite a temporary improvement, Valte ultimately succumbed to his injuries, sparking widespread condolences from political leaders, including Congress leader K Meghachandra Singh and Nagaland Rajya Sabha member S Phangnon Konyak, who highlighted his service and dedication. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences, honoring Valte for his commitment to societal progress and active legislative involvement. Valte’s contributions and leadership were recognized by many, marking his death as a significant loss for his community and the state.
Imphal