Shillong, Feb 12: A constable of East Khasi Hills police who was shot in the line of duty has since made a name for himself in an entirely different field – poetry.
Madhu Subedi, an unarmed branch constable (UBC), was shot on duty in August 2007. His severe injuries led to 75 per cent permanent locomotor disability.
Despite profound physical challenges, he demonstrated exceptional resilience and determination, refusing to allow his injuries to define his life and service. He continued to serve in the police with unwavering commitment and diligence, exemplifying courage and dedication beyond the call of duty.
He cultivated a deep passion for literature, expressing his experiences and reflections through poetry in Hindi, Nepali and English. In 2019, he joined the Delhi Sahitya Academy, where he was selected for a literature tour to Lucknow. Subsequently, he published his book “Mero Desh Lai” under the central government’s Navodaya Scheme. Subedi is now a multilingual poet who has written 60 poems in English, 15 in Hindi and 100 poems in Nepali till date.
He is known for performing his official duties in the Accounts Branch of the Police Reserve and Superintendent of Police’s Office. He also received the Motivational Strips Certificate from the Gujarat Sahitya Academy. His journey from the front lines of law enforcement to the realm of multilingual literature stands as a powerful testament to the indomitable strength of the human spirit.
Today he received a Certificate of Achievement from Meghalaya Governor CH Vijayashankar.
The Governor was at a programme organised by the office of the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities at the Lok Bhavan, Shillong to felicitate outstanding persons with disabilities.
Himalaya M Shangpliang, Chief Adviser to the Meghalaya State Paralympics Association; HC Chaudhary, Principal Secretary to the Governor; Pravin Bakshi, Commissioner and Secretary in the Social Welfare Department; CD Lyngwa, Director of Social Welfare; Lyngkor Kynjing, Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, and other senior officers were present in the programme.
Another nine outstanding persons with disabilities were felicitated at the event – Ferdinand Lyngdoh Marshillong, Anjelina Tynhiang, Simseng M Sangma, Willingson Manar, Orphon Nongrum, Shanborlang Siangshai, Keneddy Rynjah, Jepora T Sangma and Pillbert Hanse.
Addressing the gathering, Vijayashankar commended the awardees for their indomitable spirit and stated that their achievements serve as a powerful reminder that disability is not a limitation but a mark of strength and courage. The Governor also underscored the importance of identifying the root causes of disabilities and strengthening preventive measures. He emphasised that while empowerment and inclusion remain essential, equal attention must be given to early detection, awareness, timely medical intervention, maternal and child healthcare, road safety and preventive public health strategies to reduce avoidable disabilities.
The Governor further emphasised that true progress of a society is measured by how it treats its most vulnerable members. He noted that the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016 provides a strong legal foundation for ensuring equality, accessibility and non-discrimination and called upon all stakeholders to work together to translate the spirit of the act into meaningful action on the ground.
