Northeast Desk, 17th December: Former MLA Yumsen Matey from Arunachal Pradesh’s Khonsa West constituency met a tragic end near the Indo-Myanmar border in Tirap district, having been brutally assassinated. Chief Minister Pema Khandu expressed profound grief over the shocking demise, condemning the horrific act and assuring unwavering support to the victim’s family during this sorrowful time.
In a statement on the microblogging site X, Chief Minister Pema Khandu said, “I am deeply anguished at the demise of former MLA Yumsen Matey and strongly condemn the horrific act. My deepest condolences to the family, and I assure that the State Government stands firmly with them in this moment of grief.”
The tragic incident unfolded on December 16 when Yumsen Matey was reportedly abducted from a social function in Raho village in Lazu circle. The assailants transported him to the border area, where he faced a merciless demise at the hands of suspected militants. The Arunachal Pradesh Police has been directed to expedite investigations, affirming a commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice promptly.
Yumsen Matey, hailing from Lazu Village and belonging to the OLLO community in Tirap District, was a distinguished figure. As a Member of the Arunachal Pradesh Assembly from Khonsa West, he made history as the first graduate from the OLLO Community, having earned a BA Hons. in History from Government College, Itanagar. Beyond politics, Matey served as the District Adult Education Officer (DAEO) in Changlang District.
Elected as MLA from the 56th Khonsa West Assembly Constituency in 2009 under the banner of the Indian National Congress, Matey held the position of Parliamentary Secretary for the Departments of Women and Social Welfare, Social Justice and Tribal Affairs, and DOTCL (Department of Tirap, Changlang, and Longding). The assassination has sparked outrage, and condolences pour in for the loss of a leader whose contributions left a lasting impact.