“I am deeply aggrieved to learn about the sad and untimely demise of general officer commanding, 101 Area lieutenant general KC Panchanathan, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) due to cardiac arrest at Shillong,” N Biren stated in his condolence message. He is survived by his mother, wife and two children, it stated. 

“I personally remember him for his deep concern for the retired personnel and their families,” it stated. He was a leader who went out of the way to help all serving and retired personnel of India's Northeast in particular, it added. 

It mentioned that Lt General KC Panchanathan had held various prestigious posts during his service in the Army. He was a kind hearted and noble soul and had made commendable contributions towards protecting the nation's security, it stated. On his demise, the Country has lost a brave and dutiful soldier, it mentioned. 

“On behalf of the Government and people of Manipur, I convey my deepest condolences and share grief with the bereaved family and pray that God may give them the strength to bear this great loss with courage and fortitude,” it added.