Governor of Nagaland Shri L. Ganesan passed away on 15 August at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy of public service, leadership, and dedication to the nation. The Prime Minister conveyed heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the people of Nagaland, describing the loss as a significant one for the country.
Shri L. Ganeshan had a distinguished career in public life, having served in various capacities that contributed to India’s administrative and political landscape. He had earlier served as the Governor of Manipur and held the additional charge as the Governor of West Bengal. Known for his integrity, commitment, and inclusive approach, he played a vital role in fostering governance, social harmony, and regional development. During his tenure as Governor of Nagaland, he was widely respected for his efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, support local development initiatives, and promote peace and stability in the state.
A native of Thanjavur district, Ganesan was a passionate admirer of Carnatic music and made it a point of attending the annual Thyagaraja Aradhana in Thiruvaiyaru. His association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) began in his school days, with his family being closely connected to the organisation. In 1991, he was deputed to help build the BJP in Tamil Nadu and to focus on the party work. He went on to serve as the general secretary and president of the BJP’s Tamil Nadu unit. At the national level, he held the position of BJP vice-president. He contested twice, from the South Chennai Lok Sabha constituency. In 2017, Shri Ganesan was elected to the Rajya Sabha from Madhya Pradesh, following the appointment of the then MP, Najma Heptulla, as the Governor of Manipur.
Shri Ganesan also served as the editor of the BJP’s il organ Ore Naadu (One Nation) and was the founding president of Pottramarai (‘Golden Lotus’), an organisation dedicated to promoting and supporting Tamil scholars across the globe.
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the demise of Thiru La. Ganesan.
In a post on X PM said, “Pained by the passing of Nagaland Governor Thiru La. Ganesan Ji. He will be remembered as a devout nationalist, who dedicated his life to service and nation-building. He worked hard to expand the BJP across Tamil Nadu. He was deeply passionate about Tamil culture too. My thoughts are with his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”
The BJP National President Shri JP Nadda also expressed condolence on the leader’s demise. He said, “Deeply saddened to learn about by the passing of Nagaland Governor, Shri La. Ganesan Ji. From his courageous role during the Emergency to his efforts in expanding the BJP’s reach in Tamil Nadu, he remained devoted to the service of the nation. His tenure as Governor reflected his deep sense of duty towards the people. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and admirers in this moment of grief. Om Shanti !”
Union Home and Cooperation Minister Shri Amit Shah wrote on X “Deeply pained by the demise of the Governor of Nagaland, La. Ganesan Ji. A BJP leader from Tamil Nadu, Ganesan Ji, made valuable contributions to the nation during the emergency period. He will be remembered for his role in expanding the party’s footprint, disseminating the ideology and dedication to serving the people as a governor. I express my deepest condolences to his followers and admirers on his demise.”
Shri La. Ganesan’s passing is widely mourned across political, social, and administrative circles.

