TURA, Oct 25: The Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) on Sunday paid tribute to Captain Williamson A. Sangma, Meghalaya’s first Chief Minister and the council’s first Chief Executive Member, on his 36th death anniversary at Tura.
The memorial ceremony was held at the GHADC office premises, beginning with a Rashtriya Salute by personnel of the 2nd MLP Battalion, Goeragre, followed by floral tributes at the late leader’s statue at William Point and a minute’s silence in his honour.
Meghalaya Cabinet Minister Marcuise N. Marak, who attended as the chief guest, recalled Captain Sangma’s pivotal role in the formation of Meghalaya and his lifelong commitment to safeguarding the identity and rights of the people of the Garo Hills.
Marak highlighted Sangma’s leadership of the All Party Hill Leaders Conference (APHLC), through which he spearheaded the movement for a separate hill state and guided the region through crucial political developments leading to Meghalaya’s statehood.
He also underscored Sangma’s contributions to strengthening local self-governance, particularly through the establishment and development of autonomous district councils.
Calling for the preservation of the late leader’s legacy, Marak urged people to draw inspiration from his leadership and work towards taking Meghalaya to greater heights. He noted that several books had documented Sangma’s life and contributions, stressing the importance of keeping his ideals alive for future generations.
GHADC Chief Executive Member Dhormonath Ch. Sangma also addressed the gathering, highlighting Captain Sangma’s role in the creation of Meghalaya and his contribution to building the state’s autonomous district council system.
Family members of the late leader shared personal memories and anecdotes, recalling his vision, humility and leadership.
The ceremony also featured a musical tribute by the Tura Music Academy, while Raksal D. Marak, Assistant Pastor of Hawakhana Baptist Church, led a prayer.
Later, dignitaries and guests visited Captain Sangma’s resting place at his residence and laid floral tributes in his memory, paying homage to a leader whose role in Meghalaya’s statehood movement continues to shape the state’s political history.
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