Kokrajhar pays tribute to veteran peace activist Niketu Iralu

KOKRAJHAR, August 21, 2026 — A solemn tribute programme was organised at the UN Brahma Children's Park on JD Road in Kokrajhar on Thursday to pay respects and offer shradhanjali to noted peace activist Niketu Iralu, who passed away at a hospital in New Delhi on Tuesday at the age of 91.

Iralu was the recipient of the 8th Upendra Nath Brahma Soldier of Humanity Award, conferred by the Upendra Nath Brahma Trust (UNBT) in 2011 in memory of Bodofa Upendra Nath Brahma. A noted Gandhian and advocate of peace and reconciliation, he dedicated his life to the well-being of humanity.

Organised by the UN Brahma Trust, the programme remembered Iralu's remarkable life and his lifelong contribution to peace, reconciliation, dialogue and social harmony in Northeast India.

Participants recalled Iralu's significant role in peacebuilding, particularly his efforts to promote dialogue and democratic approaches to resolving conflicts in Nagaland and the wider Northeast. His commitment to mutual understanding, reconciliation and peaceful coexistence earned him widespread respect across the region.

The tribute programme was attended by former minister Urkhao Gwra Brahma, UNBT chairman Dr Dimasa Dwibrang Mwchahary, UPPL general secretary Raju Kumar Narzary, leaders of the All Bodo Students' Union (ABSU), students from various schools and others. The gathering observed a solemn moment and paid homage to the departed peace activist.

In a press statement, the Upendra Nath Brahma Trust expressed its deepest sorrow and profound grief over the death of Iralu, describing him as a veteran Naga peace and non-violence activist, noted Gandhian and tireless advocate of reconciliation.

Niketu Iralu devoted more than six decades of his life to building trust and promoting dialogue across political and ethnic divides in Northeast India, the statement said. His unwavering commitment to non-violence, reconciliation and humanity has left an enduring legacy in the region.

“It is a matter of deep significance for the Upendra Nath Brahma Trust (UNBT) that Shri Niketu Iralu was the eighth recipient of the Upendra Nath Brahma Soldier of Humanity Award, which was conferred upon him in 2011 in recognition of his outstanding and selfless contribution to peace, non-violence, reconciliation and humanity,” the statement said.

“The Trust extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, friends and all those who mourn this profound loss. We pray for strength and courage for the family to bear this irreparable loss,” it added.