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KOKRAJHAR: Bhutan bade a tearful adieu to retired Joint Home Secretary, former Consul General in India, vice president of Bhutan-India Friendship Association (BIFA), a true friend of India Dasho Tsering Wangda at his farm located at Samtenling, Sarpang today with high honour. The Prime Minister of Bhutan Tshering Tobgay and many high profile Bhutanese officials, guests and well-wishers from neighbouring Bodoland areas of India attended the funeral ceremony.
Dasho Wangda succumbed to his injuries after a wild elephant attacked him at his farm at Samtenling near Indian border on December 15 at 2.28 am at a hospital in Gelephu. His demise caste a pal of gloom among the people of Bhutan and India as he was a man with golden heart who was instrumental in strengthening the mutual relationship between Bhutan and India.
Bhutan-India Friendship Association (BIFA), Gelephu chapter, with heavy hearts, bade farewell to Dasho Tsering Wangda-a statesman of rare distinction, a humble servant of the land, and a soul cherished by many.
Paying a glowing tribute to the departed soul, the general secretary of BIFA, Gelephu chapter Dawa Penjor narrated the life, dedication and services of Wangda to the nation. He said Dasho Wangda’s life was a luminous journey, marked by unwavering devotion to his country and its people. From the verdant valleys of Haa, where he became one of the youngest Dzongdags in the 1980s, his visionary leadership sparked socioeconomic transformations that are still cherished by generations of Haaps. As Director General of the department of Law and Order in the 1990s, he stood as a sentinel of Bhutan’s security. Later, in 2008, as Bhutan’s first Consul General in Kolkata (India), he skilfully strengthened ties between Bhutan and India, weaving bonds of trust and friendship.
In recognition of his extraordinary service, Dasho Wangda was awarded the Bura Marp (Red Scarf) in 1995 by His Majesty the fourth Druk Gyalpo. His tireless efforts to deepen Bhutan-India relations earned him the National Order of Merit (Gold) on December 17, 2012-a testament to his enduring dedication to the nation.
In 2014, Dasho chose a quieter path, stepping away from public office to embrace the tranquil beauty of nature. On his farm, he found peace in the rhythm of the earth, exchanging the corridors of power for the whispers of wind through the trees. While others sought the comforts of ease, he toiled joyfully under the sun, his hands immersed in soil and his heart in harmony with the wilderness he loved. Yet, the call to serve never left him. In September 2023, His Majesty entrusted him with the role of Vice President of the Bhutan India Friendship Association (BIFA) which plays pivotal role in strengthening the mutual understanding between Bhutan and India. Like a phoenix, Dasho returned to his diplomatic roots, reigniting Bhutan-India relations with vigour and purpose, embodying His Majesty’s vision with grace and determination. But Dasho was more than his titles and accomplishments.
Penjor said late Wangda was a man of wisdom, warmth, and humility-a mentor to many and a friend to all. In the plains of Bodoland, he was not only a statesman but a beloved companion, whose kindness and wisdom won hearts far beyond Bhutan’s borders. He also said his passing had left a void that words cannot fill, an absence that echoes deeply in the hearts of all who knew him, yet his legacy endures as a beacon of selfless service, resilience and unwavering love for both land and people.
Penjor also offered their heartfelt condolences to Aum Damche, son Namgay Wangda, daughter Kinley Choki Wangda, son Dreeme Wangda, daughter Nangsey Wangda, and Kuenden Wangda. He said every member of BIFA, Gelephu chapter, will never forget his dedication and teachings. He thanked Dasho for being an inspiration, a mentor and a guiding light who gave them so much over the past year. He further said his selfless service and unwavering dedication will remain etched in their hearts as they continue to uphold his vision and energy.
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