Kalikho Pul

Kalikho Pul Biography

Kalikho Pul was an influential Indian politician who has served as the chief minister of Arunachal Pradesh. He was associated with Indian National Congress & People's Party of Arunachal and served as 8th CM of Arunachal Pradesh during 19 February 2016 – 13 July 2016, after President's rule was imposed for a short period following political instabilities. A 5-time MLA from Hayuliang Vidhan Sabha constituency representing the Indian National Congress, he assumed power as CM on 19 February 2016 for a brief period. Supreme Court of India ruled against this appointment on various grounds, and he resigned from power on 13 July 2016. Unfortunately he hung and committed suicide at his official residence in Itanagar on August 9, 2016 just a few days after he lost his power. He was only 47.

Pul was born on 20 July 1969 in the Walla village of Hawai, Anjaw district. He lost his mother at the age of one and father at the age of 6. Later he was brought up by his aunt. He supported the family by collecting firewood. At the age of 10, he left school and joined a carpentry course at the Hawai Craft Centre, and earned 1.5 rupees per day as stipend. He also worked as a tutor to support the family. He completed his school after joining a night school. With help from some of the politicians, he managed to join a hostel and completed his schooling from Hawaii Middle School. He also worked as a watchman, as no scholarship was available for under-privileged kids then.

Pul later earned a living by opening a paan shop, and also completed his graduation and law studies. He suffered so much during his younger days that he lost belief in god. Pul suffered from a chronic gastric problem for six years in the 1980s, even thought about suicide then, but was helped by Deputy Commissioner Negi to complete treatment. Pul contested the Hayuliang Vidhan Sabha constituency and won elections in 1995, 1999, 2004, 2009 and 2014 elections. He also handled many portfolios as a cabinet minister, before serving as chief minister during 19 February 2016 – 13 July 2016.

Pul allegedly committed suicide by hanging in the Chief Minister's bungalow at Itanagar where he was staying. He is survived by three wives and four children. His death stirred a lot of controversies, and still an unfolded mystery. A few believe that he was murdered. The suicide note allegedly contains the names of two Supreme Court judges who were part of the bench that dismissed Pul's government.

Published: October 15, 2018

Updated: October 15, 2018