Ukhrul | May 27, 2025: The Tangkhul community and beyond are mourning the loss of Peter Pheirei, a veteran politician and former MLA from Chingai Assembly Constituency, who passed away on Tuesday at his residence in Ukhrul. He was 87.
A condolence service was held at the TNL Hall in Ukhrul, where hundreds gathered to pay their respects to the departed leader. Prominent figures, including Khashim Vashum, Ex-Minister, and Sword Vashum, TNL President, paid tribute to Pheirei’s remarkable legacy.
Khashim Vashum described Pheirei as a dedicated leader and public servant, whose achievements will be cherished forever. Sword Vashum remembered Pheirei as a household name among the Tangkhul community, whose demise is a great loss.
Meanwhile, Ram Muivah, Ukhrul MLA in his condolence message said Peter Pheiray was a pioneering law graduate among Tangkhuls and one of the youngest MLAs in Manipur. He demonstrated remarkable courage as President of Tangkhul Naga Long, even facing torture while protecting innocent civilians. His passing leaves a void in our community, he added.
Pheirei’s body was taken to his native village, Phungcham, and will be laid to rest on Wednesday.
A Life of Service and Legacy
Peter Pheirei was a remarkable individual known for his quiet strength, unwavering faith, and deep love for his family and community. His educational journey took him from Phungcham Government L.P. School to Guwahati University, where he earned multiple degrees, including P.U., B.A., M.A., and LL.B.
Pheirei’s career was marked by dedication to education and public service. He served as Headmaster of Meluri High School and Raphei High School, and later as a Lecturer in Political Science at Pettigrew College. His commitment to nurturing young minds and serving his community led him to become a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) in 1971.
Pheirei’s leadership extended beyond politics. He served as President of the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) and offered his legal expertise as Legal Advisor to several organizations. He also served as Chief Justice of the TNL from 2006 to 2007.
Pheirei was also a prolific writer and authored several books, including:
I. “Wung Tangkhul Customary Law” (English version)
II. “Relation between the tribals of Manipur and the Maharaja of Manipur before and after 1825.
III. Illegal, unhistorical trial of the lord Jesus Christ (Christ the end of Law: Rom: 10:4)
IV. Wung/Tangkhul Customary Law (Shiyan Chikan) in Tangkhul Dialect (in press)
V. Manipur Tribals before and after 1895, Why the Sardar hills?A Lasting Legacy
Peter Pheirei’s legacy is one of leadership, learning, and love for his people. His contributions to education, law, and community service will be remembered for years to come.
