Shillong, September 15: Meghalaya bid a solemn farewell to its five-time former Chief Minister DD Lapang, who was laid to rest with full state honours today. The former Chief Minister passed away on September 12. A host of political leaders across party lines paid rich tribute to the veteran and longest-serving politician of the state, who passed away at a private hospital in Shillong.
A state funeral was held at the Student’s Field, Jaiaw, attended by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, cabinet ministers, political leaders, and officials of the Meghalaya government in the presence of family members. Floral wreaths were laid by dignitaries of the state at the casket bearing late DD Lapang’s mortal remains, draped with the Tricolour. A less-than-three-gun salute echoed across the area as a mark of respect to the departed leader during the state funeral.
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Despite the inclement weather, people from all walks of life, including students, also came to bid adieu to the leader before he was finally laid to rest at the Jaiaw Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Chief Minister Conrad Sangma paid a heartfelt tribute to former Chief Minister DD Lapang, describing him as a self-made leader who dedicated his life to serving Meghalaya and its people. Conrad Sangma recalled Lapang’s humble beginnings and his rise to prominence through hard work and determination. “His (Lapang) journey was not just his own, but that of Meghalaya itself.” He also remembered Lapang’s steadfast leadership, from the early days of statehood to the present, as a beacon of hope and stability.
Conrad Sangma shared his personal connection with Lapang, having known him since childhood through his father, Purno Sangma. He later had the privilege of serving alongside Lapang in the Assembly, where he witnessed Lapang’s dedication and passion for public service. “He was a powerful orator and he served with distinction as Minister of State, Cabinet Minister, Chief Minister, and Leader of Opposition. His voice echoed in the halls of the Assembly but it also reached the last mile…”
The Chief Minister emphasized Lapang’s strong belief in dialogue, peace, and development rooted in Meghalaya’s identity. He quoted Lapang’s teachings on leadership, which emphasized service that persists beyond applause, standing beside the last person in line, and serving the least among us.
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Conrad Sangma highlighted Lapang’s contributions to the state, including strengthening administration, investing in youth, promoting inclusivity and justice, and paving the way for peace through ceasefire agreements. He recalled Lapang’s efforts to upgrade Ri Bhoi and Baghmara as districts, establish the Meghalaya State Women Commission, and promote healthcare through initiatives like cancer detection programs. Conrad Sangma praised Lapang’s leadership, noting that he was unafraid to confront challenges with honesty and worked tirelessly to build bridges across divisions. He emphasized that Lapang’s legacy would continue to inspire future generations and that the state would carry forward his vision, united in purpose.
Conrad Sangma concluded by urging the people of Meghalaya to honour Lapang’s memory not just with words but with work and perseverance. He expressed gratitude for Lapang’s dedicated service and leadership, saying that “his memory would be a guiding light for years to come.”
Leader of Opposition Mukul Sangma paid rich tribute to the departed leader and remembered Lapang’s long innings in public service and his extraordinary opportunity to continue serving despite his advanced age. Mukul Sangma revealed that he had looked up to Lapang as a role model before joining politics. He recalled Lapang’s leadership of the Congress Legislature Party in 1988 and his determination to continue serving the people.
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The Leader of Opposition praised Lapang’s ability to handhold and nurture his colleagues, despite their shortcomings. He said Lapang’s patience, perseverance, consistency, and hard work were key qualities that earned him the trust and confidence of his comrades and colleagues. Deputy Chief Minister in-charge of Home (Police) Prestone Tynsong said the state has lost a towering leader in the passing away of Lapang, who made significant contributions to Meghalaya’s development. Among his many contributions, Tynsong said Lapang will be remembered for being instrumental in establishing many educational institutions and welfare organizations across the state, which have had a lasting impact on Meghalaya’s growth and development.
The Deputy Chief Minister shared his personal experience of working with Lapang, recalling their discussions on the all-round development of the state. He mentioned that Lapang joined the National People’s Party (NPP) after leaving the Congress party, driven by his vision for the state’s progress. Tynsong fondly remembered his time as Minister of State under Lapang’s guidance in the Planning and Industries Department. “In 2003, I was elected MLA for the first time. It was late DD Lapang who appointed me as Minister of State to assist him in the Planning and Industries Department. This gave me the opportunity to serve and gain experience in administration under his guidance,” he said while expressing gratitude for Lapang’s mentorship. He concluded by saying Lapang will be remembered as a statesman who made immense contributions to Meghalaya’s development since its formation in 1972.
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Sangma described Lapang as an integral part of Meghalaya’s growth and development story. He remembered Lapang’s vision and mission to serve the people and his mission to build a beautiful state. He noted that Lapang’s legacy would continue to inspire future generations and that the state would always be grateful for his contributions.
B. Blah, son of former Chief Minister DD Lapang, paid tribute to his father’s leadership and legacy. He emphasized that his father believed in serving others, rather than seeking power. Blah remembered his father’s humble beginnings as a teacher and his commitment to education as a means to empower others.
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Blah recalled his father’s words, “Knowledge is like a lamp in darkness,” highlighting the importance of education in helping others find their path. He noted that his father carried the hopes of Meghalaya with grace and humility, never forgetting his roots. As Chief Adviser to the Government, Lapang continued to learn and teach, inspiring others with his leadership style.
(Newmai News Network)