Kapchen Rajkumar, Former MLA from Khonsa North, Killed in Elephant Attack

In a heart-wrenching tragedy that has left Arunachal Pradesh in shock, former MLA Kapchen Rajkumar lost his life in an elephant attack on Wednesday while on foot between Namsang village and Deomali town in Tirap district.

Rajkumar, a man remembered not only for his political service but for his lifelong commitment to the people of Tirap, was reportedly walking along a forested stretch—a familiar path for the seasoned leader who had always stayed close to his roots—when the fatal incident occurred. He was 70.

Kapchen Rajkumar served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly from the then Khonsa North constituency between 1985 and 1990. But long after his tenure ended, he continued to be an active voice and helping hand in his community—offering wisdom, guidance, and unwavering support to those in need.

The news of his death cast a shadow of grief over the state. Chief Minister Pema Khandu, in a deeply emotional message, said he was "saddened to hear about the tragic passing of Late Kapchen Rajkumar, former MLA from Tirap, who fell victim to a very unfortunate incident."

“His dedication to serving the community and his contributions to our society will always be remembered. His relentless pursuit of progress for Tirap will leave a lasting legacy,” Khandu posted on social media platform X.

Describing Rajkumar's death as “a profound loss not only for his family and friends but for all those whose lives he touched,” the Chief Minister also directed immediate disbursal of ex-gratia compensation to the bereaved family. “My thoughts and prayers are with his family. May they find strength and comfort in the cherished memories they hold of him,” he added.

I am deeply saddened to hear about the tragic passing of Late Kapchen Rajkumar, former MLA from Tirap, who fell victim to a very unfortunate incident. His dedication to serving the community and his contributions to our society will always be remembered.

Late Kapchen Rajkumar’s… pic.twitter.com/R36pkrLWz6

— Pema Khandu པདྨ་མཁའ་འགྲོ་། (@PemaKhanduBJP) July 9, 2025

Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Lt. General K.T. Parnaik (Retd.), also expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. In his condolence message, the Governor said, “Late Rajkumar was a dedicated social activist whose unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people of Tirap district will always be remembered with respect and gratitude.”

“In this moment of grief, I join my fellow Arunachalis in praying to the Almighty to grant strength and solace to the bereaved family,” the Governor added.

Born and raised in Tirap, Rajkumar's journey was anything but conventional. Before stepping into politics, he had pursued commercial pilot training at Safdarjung Airport in New Delhi—reflecting his aspirations to rise and uplift. But he chose to return to his homeland, believing his greater purpose lay not in flying planes, but in walking alongside his people.

Those who knew him recall a man of quiet strength, humility, and a fierce sense of responsibility toward his community. Even in his later years, he remained accessible to villagers, offering counsel and encouragement to the youth.

News of his death triggered an outpouring of grief in Tirap, where hundreds gathered to mourn. Friends and former colleagues remembered him as a "people’s leader" who never sought limelight but earned deep respect.

As the sun set over the misty hills of Tirap, a sense of collective mourning descended upon the land he so deeply loved. The suddenness of the tragedy has left many struggling to come to terms with the loss, but there is solace in the legacy he leaves behind—of service, simplicity, and an undying love for his people.

Kapchen Rajkumar is survived by his wife, two sons, and a daughter.

His final journey will be marked by the very spirit he lived by—surrounded by the land, the forests, and the people of Tirap that he held close to his heart till his last breath.

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