Kangpokpi Mourns the Loss of Former ADC-SH Chairman Haokholal Hangshing

The town of Kangpokpi was shrouded in grief as news broke of the untimely demise of Haokholal Hangshing, a towering figure in the region’s history and former Chairman of the Sadar Hills Autonomous District Council (SH-ADC). He tragically passed away in a fatal accident on the evening of December 29 at Kangpokpi, just days before his 78th birthday.

The incident occurred while Hangshing was returning home from the Sunday evening church service, a routine that reflected his deep faith and commitment to his community. As he walked along the highway, he was struck by a two-wheeler. The impact was severe, and Hangshing was immediately rushed to a local hospital. Due to the gravity of his injuries, he was transferred to a hospital in a neighboring district, where he fought valiantly but succumbed to his injuries later that evening.

Born on January 2, 1947, Haokholal Hangshing was a pillar of strength to his family, and a beacon of hope for his community. He was the eldest son among the eight siblings of the late Khatkhopao Hangshing and Dimting Hangshing. Despite losing all his siblings in earlier years, he remained a steadfast figure for his family and community.

Haokholal’s remarkable journey began with his graduation from St. Edmund’s College, Shillong, in 1971. He later married Tingneilhing Hangshing on August 6, 1975, building a loving family that includes two sons, two daughters, and seven grandchildren.

His professional life was marked by dedication and service. Starting as a Progress Assistant in SH-ADC, he climbed the ranks to become the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) from 1994 to 2006. He entered the political arena as a Member of the District Council (MDC) and served as Vice Chairman (2010–2012) and Chairman (2012–2020), leaving an indelible mark on the region’s governance and development.

Hangshing actively lobbied for the recognition of Sadar Hills as a full-fledged district, addressing longstanding grievances of the community regarding administrative neglect and resource distribution.

The accident that claimed his life has left Kangpokpi in mourning. As a mark of respect, the Kangpokpi Town Committee (KTC) called for a complete shutdown of the town. Thousands gathered to pay their last respects to a man whose life was defined by humility, resilience, and a profound commitment to his people.

Hangshing was considered the backbone of Kangpokpi Town and a faithful servant of Sadar Hills. In a final act of reverence and sorrow, the volunteers of the Kangpokpi Town Committee raised their weapons to the sky, delivering a solemn gun salute that echoed through the silent town, a haunting farewell to a leader whose absence will forever leave a void in their hearts.

Haokholal Hangshing was laid to rest in Kangpokpi, the land he loved and served until his last breath. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, a reminder of a life dedicated to progress and unity.

Kangpokpi AC MLA Nemcha Kipgen, who is also the Minister for Textiles, Commerce and Industries, and Cooperation, along with Saitu AC MLA Haokholet Kipgen and many other prominent Kuki-Zo leaders, attended the burial ceremony of Haokholal Hangshing at Kangpokpi Town.

Kuki Inpi Manipur, Sadar Hills Chiefs' Association, Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills, Committee on Tribal Unity, KSO Sadar Hills, Thadou Youth Association General Headquarters, and numerous other civil society organizations and local bodies express their profound sorrow over the untimely demise of Haokholal Hangshing, a visionary leader and dedicated servant of his people.

Hangshing’s passing has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of the community. A man of unwavering faith, humility, and integrity, his life was a beacon of hope and progress for the people of Sadar Hills and beyond. His tireless contributions to governance, community development, and unity will be cherished for generations to come.

The civil society organisations also extend their deepest condolences to his bereaved family, loved ones, and the entire community mourning his absence.

As Kuki-Zo community bid farewell to the remarkable soul, they honor his legacy and vow to uphold the values he championed.