Nagaland govt declares 7-day state mourning in honour of guv Ganesan
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Dimapur: Nagaland governor La Ganesan's death in Chennai on Friday night marks the loss of a respected leader whose life was defined by unwavering dedication to public service, nation-building, and cross-regional harmony.
He was 80.
Nagaland on Saturday declared a seven-day state mourning to honour Ganesan who died on Friday night.
During this period, the national flag will be flown at half-mast, while no official entertainment programme will be organised by state govt departments, a home department notification said.
Ganesan, who had travelled to his hometown in Chennai in late July, was scheduled to return to Nagaland this week. However, on Aug 8, he collapsed at his residence, suffering a head injury.
He was undergoing treatment in the ICU of a Chennai hospital for the past few days.
Appointed as the 21st governor of Nagaland in Feb 2023, Ganesan also served as governor of Manipur and West Bengal between 2021 and 2025. A veteran BJP leader with deep RSS roots, he was especially renowned for his tireless efforts in building the BJP's presence in Tamil Nadu, where he was closely associated with Tamil culture and literature.
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Ganesan's journey from an RSS pracharak and govt employee to a senior BJP leader showcased his commitment to public welfare and political organisation building. His passion for Tamil literature inspired initiatives like 'Pottramarai', nurturing scholars & cultural heritage.
President Droupadi Murmu expressed grief over the passing of Ganesan. In her condolence message, Murmu said, "Saddened by the demise of Governor of Nagaland, Shri La Ganesan Ji.
He also served as the Member of Rajya Sabha and Governor of Manipur and West Bengal. During his long public life, he worked for the welfare of the people. His contribution to the development of Tamil Nadu and the country will be remembered. I extend my deep condolences to his family and admirers.
"
PM Narendra Modi, in his tribute posted on X, described La Ganesan as a 'devout nationalist' and praised his lifelong commitment to service, nation-building, and his passion for Tamil culture.
Modi recalled his efforts to grow BJP in Tamil Nadu and expressed condolences to Ganesan's family and admirers, saying, "He will be remembered as a devout nationalist, who dedicated his life to service and nation-building.
He worked hard to expand the BJP across Tamil Nadu. He was deeply passionate about Tamil culture too. My thoughts are with his family and admirers. Om Shanti."
Union home minister Amit Shah in his tribute said, "A BJP leader from Tamil Nadu, Ganesan Ji, made valuable contributions to the nation during the emergency period.
He will be remembered for his role in expanding the party's footprint, disseminating the ideology and dedication to serving the people as a governor."
Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio described him as a man of integrity, wisdom, and moral strength, praising his simplicity and deep connection with the grassroots during his tenure.
In his condolence message, Rio said, "Despite holding the highest office in the state, he remained simple, humble, and deeply connected to the grassroots.
His modest nature endeared him to the people and will continue to inspire generations. In my time of working with him, I came to know him as a man of integrity, principle, great wisdom, and moral strength, steadfast in his commitment to upholding the values of the Constitution.
... "
Rio, deputy CMs TR Zeliang and Y Patton along with state chief secretary Sentiyanger Imchen, and DGP Rupin Sharma visited Chennai to pay their last respects to the departed soul.
Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin recalled the governor's political civility and his genuine regard for leaders from different backgrounds, noting especially his respect for the late DMK leader M Karunanidhi.
The state funeral and cremation was held with full state honours at Besant Nagar Electric Crematorium, Chennai, at 5pm.
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