Five-time former CM and Meghalaya’s longest service politician laid to rest with full state honours
Shillong, Sep 15: Meghalaya’s one of the longest serving politicians since the days of statehood movement, Dr DD Lapang, was given a final farewell by hundreds of his admirers and high dignitaries as he was laid to rest with full state honours on Monday.
Political leaders across party lines paid rich tributes to the nonagenarian leader and five-time former chief minister, who passed away in Shillong on September 12.
Despite inclement weather, people from all walks of life including students came to bid adieu to Lapang before he was finally laid to rest at Jaiaw Presbyterian Church Cemetery.
Chief minister Conrad K Sangma, cabinet ministers, senior government officials, his family members and well-wishers among others attended the state funeral at Student’s Field, Jaiaw here.
Floral wreaths were laid by the dignitaries of the state at the casket bearing Dr Lapang’s mortal remains draped with the tricolour.
A gun salute resonated the area, offering the political veteran a fitting last tribute.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma paid a heartfelt tribute to Dr Lapang, describing him as a self-made leader who dedicated his life to serving Meghalaya and its people.
He recalled Lapang’s humble beginnings and his rise to prominence through hard work and determination.
“His (Lapang) journey as 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.
The chief minister shared his personal connection with Lapang, having known him since childhood through his father, Purno A. Sangma. He said, 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 emphasize service that persists beyond applause, standing beside the last person in line, and serving the least among us.
He also 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 programmes.
Praising Lapang’s leadership, he noted that the veteran leader was unafraid to confront challenges with honesty and worked tirelessly to build bridges across divisions.
In his address, Leader of Opposition Mukul Sangma paid rich tribute to the departed leader remembered Dr 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, even at the age of 69.
Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Home (Police) Prestone Tynsong said the state has lost a towering leader in the passing away of Dr 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.
He 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 also fondly remembered his time as Minister of State under Lapang’s guidance in the Planning and Industries Department.
He concluded saying Lapang will be remembered as a statesman who made immense contributions to Meghalaya’s development since its formation in 1972.
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.
He 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.
