Northeast Desk, 13th June: Pema Khandu, who is set to assume the role of Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh for a third consecutive term, has solidified his position as a key leader in the northeastern state, especially after navigating a constitutional crisis in 2016 that led to the imposition of President’s Rule.
Khandu is known not only for his political acumen but also for his passion for sports and music. His strategic efforts were instrumental in bringing the BJP to power for the first time in Arunachal Pradesh in 2016.
His political journey began amid personal tragedy when his father, former Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu, died in a helicopter crash in 2011. Pema Khandu’s rise in politics accelerated when he won a by-election uncontested from his father’s constituency, Mukto.
Initially serving as the tourism minister in Nabam Tuki’s Congress government, Khandu’s leadership became more prominent during the constitutional crisis in January 2016, which resulted in President’s Rule. After central rule was lifted, he joined the Kalikho Pul-led government supported by the BJP. However, this government was short-lived, and Tuki was reinstated as Chief Minister following a Supreme Court ruling. Khandu then became Chief Minister in July 2016 at the age of 37.
In 2019, Khandu was re-elected from the Mukto assembly seat and took office as Chief Minister without political obstacles.
Outside of politics, Khandu is celebrated for his contributions to culture, particularly in music. He often entertains audiences with performances of classic songs by Kishore Kumar and Mohammad Rafi at official events. His enthusiasm for sports is evident through his organization of cricket tournaments and support for local athletes across various sports, including football, cricket, badminton, and volleyball.
A history graduate from Delhi’s Hindu College, Khandu belongs to the Monpa tribe, which primarily inhabits Tawang and parts of West Kameng. During the assembly polls held concurrently with the Lok Sabha elections on April 19, Khandu campaigned on a platform of corruption-free governance, emphasizing transparency and policies centered on the people.
At 45, Pema Khandu, a Buddhist by faith, has been re-elected unopposed from the Mukto seat in the border district of Tawang, ready to continue his leadership for another term.
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