Former Arunachal MLA Kapchen Rajkumar dies in elephant attack

Guwahati: Former Arunachal Pradesh MLA Kapchen Rajkumar died in a tragic elephant attack on Wednesday while walking from Namsang village to Deomali town in Tirap district.

Rajkumar served as a member of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly from the then Khonsa North constituency between 1985 and 1990.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu condoled his passing and directed the administration to provide ex-gratia support to the bereaved family at the earliest.


In a post on X, Khandu said, “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. His relentless pursuit of progress for Tirap will leave a lasting legacy.”

“It is a profound loss not only for his family and friends but for all those whose lives he touched through his work,” Khandu added. “Necessary instructions have been issued to process the ex-gratia grant. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. May they find strength and comfort in the cherished memories they hold of him.”

Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt. General K.T. Parnaik (Retd.) also expressed deep sorrow over Rajkumar’s untimely demise. In a statement, the Governor said Rajkumar's passing is a profound loss for the entire community. “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,” he said.

“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.

Before entering politics, Rajkumar had undertaken a commercial pilot training course at Safdarjung Airport in New Delhi.