New Delhi/Kohima, Aug 16 – Following the demise of Nagaland Governor La. Ganesan, President Droupadi Murmu has appointed Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla to discharge the functions of Nagaland Governor in addition to his current responsibilities. A Rashtrapati Bhavan communiqué confirmed the appointment on Saturday.
Bhalla, a former Union Home Secretary, assumed office as Governor of Manipur on January 3 this year. Manipur has been under President’s Rule since February 13, after the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh.
La. Ganesan, 80, passed away in Chennai on Friday evening while undergoing treatment at a private hospital for a severe head injury sustained from a fall at his residence in T. Nagar on August 8. His death has left a significant void in Nagaland’s political and constitutional leadership.
As a mark of respect, the Nagaland government has declared seven days of state mourning from August 16 to 22. During this period, the National Flag will be flown at half-mast on all official buildings.
A memorial service was held at Raj Bhavan, Kohima, on Saturday to honour Ganesan’s life and service. Nagaland Assembly Speaker Sharingain Longkumer, addressing the gathering, described the fellowship as a sign of love and remembrance, expressing deep grief at the loss. He noted that the passing of the Governor had created a “huge vacuum” in the state.
Longkumer further highlighted the Naga tradition of never leaving the home of the departed empty, saying the fellowship expressed solidarity with Ganesan’s family. He also thanked the elected members of the Assembly for attending, calling it a profound gesture of respect.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Ministers and Chief Secretary represented Nagaland at the funeral in Chennai, while officials and Assembly members in Kohima paid floral tributes at the solemn ceremony.
