Itanagar: Former Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu was remembered on his 12th death anniversary on Sunday.
Popularly known as “People’s Chief Minister”, Dorjee Khandu died in a helicopter crash on this day in 2011 at a remote location between Kyela and Luguthang in Tawang district, along with four others.
Mention may be made that a large chunk of modern infrastructures including Trans-Arunachal Highway, Greenfield airport, Railway lines, new State Civil Secretariat and Assembly buildings etc are the product of late Khandu’s policies. He was conferred the ‘Karamveer Award’ by Arunachal Pradesh Literary Society in 2013 in recognition of his contributions to the State.
His eldest son and present Chief Minister Pema Khandu paid floral tributes at the life-size statue of late Dorjee Khandu at Jangchub Chorten in Tawang district.
Taking to Twitter, Khandu said, “Paid my homage to former Chief Minister Late Dorjee Khandu ji at Jangchub Chorten on his 12th death anniversary. For me, he was more than a father ~ a true guide, friend, philosopher and critic. He taught us values of life from where we draw strength and courage to serve the people of the state.”
In another post, he wrote: “You were a colossal tree under whose shadow we grew, acquired knowledge, life skills. Life is no more the same, as it was in your august, affectionate presence. Every day by your blessings I gain courage to work hard for my State. On your 12th death anniversary, miss you Dear Apa. May Lord Buddha keep you happy, smiling always.”
Remembering and paying his heartfelt tribute to Dorjee Khandu, Union Law Minister Kiren Rijiju said, “His immense contributions in building our beautiful State of Arunachal Pradesh is immeasurable. He will live in our hearts forever”.
Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein said Khandu was a visionary leader who played a crucial role in the development of the state.
“The people of Arunachal Pradesh will always remain grateful for his contributions to the growth and progress of our state. His legacy lives on, and will continue to inspire us in our efforts toward advancing Arunachal Pradesh,” Mein stated in a tweet.
