Former Arunachal minister Passang Wangchuk Sona dies

Former Arunachal Pradesh minister Passang Wangchuk Sona died on Friday morning at his Mechuka residence in Shi-Yomi district owing to prolonged illness, his family said. He was 69 and is survived by three sons, a daughter and grandchildren.

Assembly Speaker Passang Dorjee Sona is the son of Passang Wangchuk. Sona served in the state cabinet in the capacity of minister of mines & minerals and cooperation, besides food & civil supplies from 1995 to 1999.

He was also deputy speaker of the legislative assembly. Chief Minister Pema Khandu condoled the demise of Sona and said he was a prominent personality of the political history of Arunachal Pradesh.

"In his demise, our state has lost a first generation leader, who led from the front. His work for the downtrodden and needy will always be remembered," Khandu said in his condolence message..