Shillong, Jan 2: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Friday paid his last respects to Skylance G. Momin, a pioneering police officer and revered community leader from Garo Hills, as the Meghalaya Police accorded him a ceremonial guard of honour.
Speaker of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly Thomas A. Sangma and Gambegre MLA Mehtab Sangma, along with senior officials, community elders and family members, were present at the solemn ceremony.
In a tribute posted on social media, Chief Minister Sangma described Momin as a trailblazer and a guiding light for the Garo community. He recalled that Momin was not only the first Garo officer of the Meghalaya Police Service (MPS) and the first Garo nominated to the Indian Police Service (IPS), but also a leader whose life was defined by service, humility and an unwavering commitment to justice. The Chief Minister particularly highlighted Momin’s dedication to empowering Nokmas and preserving Garo culture and identity.
Skylance G. Momin, born on February 10, 1943, in Tura, carved a distinguished career spanning nearly three decades in policing. He held several key positions, including Superintendent of Police in Tura and Williamnagar, Commandant of MLP Battalions, Deputy Inspector General of Police, and later Inspector General of Police (Reforms), before retiring in 2004. His tenure was marked by an emphasis on discipline, training and peace-building, including his role in facilitating the surrender of the A’chik Liberation Matgrik Army.
Beyond policing, Momin was widely respected for his contributions to Garo society. He played a pivotal role in strengthening the institution of Nokmaship in Garo Hills and reviving traditional democratic practices, earning the Meghalaya Award from the People’s Grassroots Democracy Advisory Council. He later served as President of all Nokmas of Garo Hills and oversaw the construction of Nokma Kachari buildings in several villages.
A founding member of the 100 Drums Wangala Festival and former General Secretary of the Tura Sports Association, Momin also worked actively in areas ranging from cultural preservation and environmental conservation to sports promotion and inter-community harmony.
Skylance G. Momin passed away on January 1, 2026, after battling a prolonged illness. He is remembered as a bridge between modern governance and traditional institutions, leaving behind a legacy that shaped the social, cultural and administrative fabric of Garo Hills.
