Editor,
In an era where integrity is frequently compromised by greed, narratives of selfless individuals act as a much-needed moral compass.
I was in my 7th standard in VKV Sher. His son Tamar and I have known each other since then as we were batchmates, and hence, since then I referred to the great soul as Abo.
During a programme on 11 September, Abo Tolum shared a profoundly moving personal experience that highlighted his uncompromising honesty.
Abo Tolum recounted an incident while travelling on a bus from Lakhimpur towards Pasighat for his college studies. Beneath the bus seat, he discovered a purse containing a substantial amount of cash. The scenario was a classic test of character — a lonely, anonymous setting with a fortune left behind by a stranger. It was a moment that could have tempted anyone.
However, Abo Tolum did not succumb to greed. Instead, he immediately took charge of the situation, shouting to identify the owner, and safely returned the purse to its rightful owner.
His action in that bus reflects the core value of integrity he held in both his personal life and his illustrious public service career.
This anecdote, shared by the veteran leader himself, is not merely a story of returning lost property; it is a profound testament to the principled life he lived.
Known as a guardian of indigenous heritage, faith, belief and culture, Abo Tolum dedicated his life to community welfare and social harmony, and was a true son of Anv Donyi who dedicated his whole life to the Donyi Polo movement.
His passing on 14 May, 2026, has left a void in Arunachal Pradesh, but stories like this ensure his legacy remains an inspiration for the younger generation to uphold integrity over convenience.
I pray that Anv Donyi embraces him forever.
Om…
Gyamde Gumja Tamin, 
Asst Gen Secy (HQ),
IFCSAP