BJP MLA injured during 2023 Manipur ethnic violence dies, PM Modi pays tribute

BJP MLA Vungzagin Valte from Manipur died at a private hospital in Gurugram on Friday after battling injuries sustained during the early stages of ethnic violence in 2023. Valte, a former minister and prominent member of the Zomi tribal community, hailed from Pherzawl district. He was 61. PM Modi expressed grief over the MLA’s death.

Valte, who represented the Thanlon Assembly Constituency and hailed from Pherzawl district, had been undergoing prolonged medical treatment following the attack in Imphal nearly two years ago.

Valte was a leader from the Zomi tribal community and a former minister. He was assaulted in May 2023 in Imphal’s Nagamapal area when ethnic violence erupted in the state.

The attack left him critically injured, prompting immediate medical attention and his subsequent transfer to Delhi for advanced treatment.

After nearly two years of care, he briefly returned to Churachandpur in April last year with his wife.

However, his health condition deteriorated sharply on February 7 this year.

According to family members, he was airlifted to the national capital the next day for urgent medical care.

Despite continued treatment, he succumbed to his injuries at a private hospital in Gurugram.

Congress Legislature Party leader Keisham Meghachandra condoled Valte’s death, describing it as a major loss to the state.

In a post on X, he said, "I am deeply saddened by the untimely demise of the MLA of Thanlon Assembly Constituency, Pu Vungzagin Valte. His passing is not only a great loss to his family and loved ones, but also to the people of Thanlon and the entire state of Manipur."

He added that Valte had dedicated his life to public service and remained committed to the welfare of his constituents.

A state BJP spokesperson also expressed shock over the development, stating, "We heard about his passing away at a hospital in Gurugram and are deeply shocked. We stand by his family at this hard time. His lifelong service to the people of Manipur, especially to the Kuki-Zo community, and his courage in the face of adversity, and his commitment to public welfare will always be remembered."

Former Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh had met Valte earlier this month when he was brought to Imphal airport before being shifted to Delhi. At the time, he had extended his wishes for a speedy recovery.

PM MODI PAYS TRIBUTE

Prime Ministr Narendra Modi paid last respects to the Manipur leader, acknowleding his contribution in public life and sent condolences to his family.

PM Modi wrote on X, "Pu Vungzagin Valte will be remembered for his outstanding service to the people of Manipur. He worked diligently towards bringing a positive difference in society”.

“His interventions in the assembly were always insightful. Pained by his passing. Condolences to his family, friends and supporters," he added.

Valte’s death marks the end of a prolonged struggle following one of the most turbulent periods in Manipur’s recent history.

He is remembered as a committed public representative whose service and resilience left a lasting impression on the state’s political and social landscape.

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