The state of Arunachal Pradesh today grieves the loss of former Minister Kardu Taipodia, a respected political figurehead noted for his dedicated service and commitment to the welfare of his constituents and the wider state.
Born in the serene village of Ripo on December 31, 1942, Kardu Taipodia was the son of the late Lenkar Taipodia and Yajum Olnl Taipodia. His life was marked by distinct leadership attributes and a profound sense of social responsibility, which came to the fore in his early engagement with social activism during his school and college years.
Taipodia’s political journey is decorated with several key roles, including serving as the President of the Arunachal Pradesh Youth Congress Committee from 1976 to 1985, and the Chairman of the North East Youth Coordination Committee from 1985 to 1989. He also held the position of General Secretary-cum-AICC Member from 1989 to 1994, and represented India as a delegate at the 1980 Moscow Olympic Games and the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
Locally, Taipodia held the post of Vice-President of Likabali-Gensi Anchal Samity from 1974 to 1979, and Vice-President of the Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) from 1994 to 1998. He enjoyed a successful political career that included winning the MLA seat for the undivided constituency of Aalo in 1984 and the 28-Likabali Assembly constituency in 1989 and 1994-1999. During his tenure as an MLA, he was appointed as a cabinet Minister, overseeing portfolios such as Tax & Excise, Transport, and Rural Development.
In the later stages of his political career, Taipodia contested as an NCP MLA candidate and ran for the MP seat from the Western Parliament in 2004, representing the Samajwadi Party.
The news of Kardu Taipodia’s passing has elicited deep sorrow and condolences from the state’s political leaders. Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu acknowledged Taipodia’s significant contributions to society and his dedicated service to the people of his constituency, 28 Likabali. APCC President and Sagalee MLA Nabam Tuki also extended his condolences on Taipodia’s demise.
