NESFAS assembled an immediate condolence meeting with the organization’s staff after learning of the unfortunate death of Mr. G.P. Wahlang IAS, a former board member of the organization. The meeting was presided over by Pius Rani, Executive Director of NESFAS, in the presence of Mr. Phrang Roy, the organization’s founding chairperson. Following the announcement of Mr. Wahlang’s death, Mr. H.H.Mohrmen of NESFAS stated in his obituary remark that his earliest memory of Wahlang was when he was the Deputy Commissioner of Jaintia Hills District, and he also remembered that he wrote poems that were published by the monthly literary magazine ‘ka Pansara’, published from Jowai.
Mr. Phrang Roy remarked that he was an honest officer and tribal rights and issues were very close to his heart. He also added that during every Board meetings at NESFAS, Mr. Wahlang would always make sure that the rights of the indigenous people were respected and he was very concerned and vocal about the farmer’s livelihood and their wellbeing.
Mr. Pius Rani said that it is sad that in the last two years, NESFAS has lost two of its pillars, Dr. Kyrham Nongkynrih and now Mr. G.P. Wahlang. Mr. G.P Wahlang was one of the first individuals to come forward and remind everyone about the strong indigenous values, which NESFAS base its vision and initiatives on. Furthermore, he had also supported in facilitating NESFAS with the Special Purpose Vehicle Society (SPVS) to promote Khneng embroidery.
Today, the organization mourns the passing of a great man, a key figure who has left behind a powerful legacy of being vocal about strong value systems of the indigenous peoples. The NESFAS team, friends, board members and families extend their heartfelt condolences to the family of Mr. Wahlang, and join hands in this time of loss in honouring his memory and wishing peace and strength to his family and friends.
