• At funeral, PA Sangma accorded full state honours, 21-gun salute
• Dignitaries pay glowing tribute to the strongman of NE politics
Tura, March 7 (MExN): The mortal remains of the strongman of Northeast politics fondly called as “King of the Garos” Purno Agitok Sangma or PA Sangma was accorded full state honours, including a 21-gun salute at Dikki Bandi stadium here today.
Meghalaya police personnel brought the casket carrying the mortal remains of Sangma at Dikki Bandi stadium at 11 am for the state funeral ceremony, which was attended by over 15,000 people.
Meghalaya speaker AT Mondal, chief minister Mukul Sangma and his Cabinet and parliamentary secretaries, Nagaland speaker Chotisuh Sazo, former Nagaland chief minister and Lok Sabha MP Neiphiu Rio, former union minister Arvind Netam, opposition leader of Meghalaya, Donkupar Roy, former Meghalaya chief minister DD Lapang, former Manipur chief minister Radhabinod Koijam were amongst thousands who took part in the funeral.
The ceremony lasted for about three hours with dignitaries recalling Sangma’s contribution to the state of Meghalaya, Northeast and the country as a whole.
In the words of the different dignitaries, Sangma's death has brought an end to an era of politics in Garo hills. The speakers said that in his four decades political career, he has connected the people of Northeast to the rest of India and emerged as the most prominent and acceptable face in India’s politics, making the Garo tribe and the title “Sangma” known.
Mukul, recollecting his association with the departed leader said, “Voice has fallen silent but his (Sangma) deeds will always be remembered. He has been an inspiration to many young politicians. He has taught us pull and pushes of political challenge.”
He also said that the departed leader was instrumental in connecting Northeast to the rest of the country and the world. “He has enlightened me in politics. We will all miss him and his work will always inspire us,” said the Chief Minister.
Recollecting Sangma's contribution, Rio, speaking on behalf on Northeast MPs Forum said, “He (Sangma) fought for his commitment till his last. He was the pride of Northeast and the tribal people of the country. His legacy will remain with us all times to come; we will always feel his presence.”
Koijam described the philosophies of Purno Sangma as “innovative” and “progressive”.
The speakers referring their association with Sangma acknowledged him as the man of the masses, a friend of the downtrodden and the poor. Pala, while terming Sangma as a “political titan” said, “His concern for the Northeast will be cherished and all MPs from the region will champion his cause.”
Roy felt that someone from his family should take the mantle and fulfill the unfinished task, which Sangma had dreamed for Meghalaya and Garo hills in particular.
After the condolence speeches by different dignitaries, Agatha Sangma expressed her gratitude to the people of Garo hills, the President of India, Prime Minister and all other politicians from across the country for extending their condolence to the bereaved family.
Later, Meghalaya police personnel handed over the folded national flag to Sangma’s wife Soradini, who was accompanied by Conrad, Sangma’s youngest son, a former Cabinet minister of Meghalaya.
The motorcade carrying the mortal remains was taken through the streets of Tura, witnessed by a massive crowd of people, who thronged the 8-km stretch of road from Dikki Bandi stadium to Cathedral church at RC Road.
After a prayer service at the cathedral, Sangma’s mortal remains was buried at the cemetery near Bishop House.
