NAHARLAGUN, Mar 23: Tem Taying – lovingly called ‘Guruji’ by all – who had proposed Itanagar as the state capital, passed away at his residence here around 12.30 pm on Friday after prolonged illness.
He was about 75, and is survived by his wife, seven sons and three daughters.
Former chief minister Gegong Apang, who joined others at his residence to pay his last respects, said that Taying, despite not being an MLA or a minister, has become immortal by his pioneering works for the state.
“He was behind establishment of the state capital in Itanagar, though the central team proposed that it be at Banderdewa,” Apang recalled.
He lauded Tarh Welfare Society (TWS) general secretary Tarh Tarak for writing his biography and senior journalist Pradeep Kumar for quoting his records to highlight his valuable services to the state. However, he regretted that the state government failed to recognize his contributions.
Apang joined local lawmaker Techi Kaso, TWS members led by Tarak and traders led by Arunachal Chamber of Commerce & Industry GS Tarh Nachung to pray for the departed soul to rest in eternal peace.
