Williamnagar, Dec 12: The greatest freedom fighter from the Garo Hills Pa Togan Nengminja Sangma who took on the might of the British government, leading a rebel uprising to push back the foreign forces from the tribal lands of the Garos, ultimately embracing martyrdom in the epic battle at Chisobra over 152 years ago, was fondly remembered on his death anniversary with rich tributes paid in his honour.
People of Garo Hills observed the 152 death anniversary with special condolence programmes in various parts of the region.
The main observance was held at Chisobibra village, near Williamnagar town in East Garo Hills, where Pa Togan Nengminja Sangma fell in battle.
Meghalaya minister for Soil and Water Conservation, PHE and Housing, Marcuise N Marak along with the CEM of GHADC, Albinush R Marak, led the people of Garo Hills in remembering and honouring the warrior who mobilized the Garo chieftains and young men to come together and fight for freedom.
Speaking on the occasion, Marcuise said that Pa Togan Nengminja Sangma has immensely contributed towards the independence of India from the British raj and informed that he was the man who inspired the Garo people to remain independent from the foreign rule.
Others who spoke on the occasion included the CEM of GHADC, Albinush R Marak, Deputy CEM of GHADC, Nikman Ch Marak and the president of the Pa Togan Nengminja Sangma Mahari Association (PTNSMA).
Garo Hills has a rich history of the freedom struggle beginning with Pa Togan and many others. Among them was Sonaram Sangma regarded as the first political figure to inspire nationalism among the Garo people. He opposed the British government and used constitutional power rather than physical force to defend the rights and freedom of the Garo people.
Another great freedom fighter was Phukan Nengminza Sangma of Dalu, bordering Mymensing district in now Bangladesh. Phukan Sangma had opposed the tax collection for the 2nd world war by the British and stood up against their order prohibiting the sale of paddy outside of Assam, terming it an immense loss to farmers. He was arrested and incarcerated in prison for 18 long months with a fine of 500 rupees ot an additional 6 months in jail.
When India gained freedom at midnight of August 15, 1947, Phukan Sangma had the honour of being the first to hoist the national flag in Tura.
