Itanagar, May 16: Members of the Arunachal Press Club (APC) and the Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ) joined family, community leaders, and residents on Saturday to bid farewell to noted indigenous leader and social reformer Dr. Bengia Tolum. The funeral service was held at his residence, Tolum Polyi, in Yazali, where he was laid to rest.

Dr. Tolum passed away on Thursday at the Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (TRIHMS), Naharlagun, at the age of 69. He leaves behind his wife, five sons—including senior journalist Bengia Ajum—and a daughter.

The media fraternity stood alongside mourners to honor the late leader, whose lifelong contributions to indigenous identity, social harmony, and education have left a lasting legacy in Arunachal Pradesh. Expressing deep sorrow, APC president Amar Sangno described his passing as an irreparable loss not only to the Nyishi community but to the entire state.

“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,” Sangno said. He emphasized that Dr. Tolum’s efforts in fostering social harmony, preserving indigenous identity, advancing education, and engaging constructively with the media will be remembered for generations.

The APC and APUWJ extended heartfelt condolences to senior journalist Bengia Ajum and the bereaved family, praying for strength during this difficult time and for the departed soul to rest in eternal peace.

Among those present at the funeral were APUWJ President Dodum Yangfo, General Secretary Sonam Jelly, APC General Secretary Damien Lepcha, members of the Ziro Press Club (ZPC), and several journalists from across the state, reflecting the widespread respect Dr. Tolum commanded across communities.