ITANAGAR, May 14: The Arunachal Press Club (APC) and the Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ) have expressed profound grief over the demise of Dr Bengia Tolum, one of Arunachal Pradesh’s most respected social reformers, cultural icons, and indigenous leaders, who passed away at the Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (TRIHMS), Naharlagun, on Thursday. He was 69.
Dr Tolum is survived by his wife, five sons, including senior journalist Bengia Ajum and a daughter.
In a joint condolence message, APC and APUWJ described Dr Tolum’s passing as an irreparable loss not only to the Nyishi community but to the entire state, noting that his contributions to social harmony, indigenous identity, education, and journalism-friendly public engagement will be remembered for generations.
A sixth-time president of the Nyishi Elite Society (NES) and the founder president of the Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum (AITF), Dr Tolum dedicated decades of his life to community service, peace-building, and cultural preservation. He played a historic role in the Nyishi unification movement, the successful campaign for the change of nomenclature from Dafla to Nyishi, and several landmark peace initiatives, including the Nyishi-Apatani Summit, Roing Declaration, Bomdila Declaration, and Namsai Declaration.
Beyond his public leadership, he was a visionary educationist and institution builder. From establishing Abotani Academy to promoting Nyishi language education, authoring academic books, and supporting underprivileged students, Dr Tolum’s legacy extended far beyond activism.
“Dr Bengia Tolum was not merely a community leader; he was a bridge-builder, a guardian of indigenous heritage, and a compassionate human being whose life was devoted to uplifting society. His passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill,” the joint statement said.
APC and APUWJ also conveyed heartfelt condolences to senior journalist Bengia Ajum and the bereaved family, praying for strength during this difficult time and for the departed soul to attain eternal peace.
Source: Arunachal Press Club
