Shillong, Feb 20: Leaders from across parties paid emotional tributes to Lok Sabha Shillong MP Dr. Ricky Andrew J Syngkon in the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly today, recalling him as a dedicated preacher, teacher, and politician.
Assembly Speaker Thomas A. Sangma called him a parliamentarian known for integrity, intellect, and advocacy for the Northeast’s rights and development. He said Syngkon’s faith grounded him in humility, compassion, and service.
The Speaker said though he did not know him personally, he noted Syngkon’s role as an academician, teacher, and politician. He said the parliamentarian was a God-fearing man of strong faith.
Sangma recalled that in December 2025 the MP had delivered God’s message to the Garo community at an advance Christmas service in Delhi.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma described his death as a profound loss, remembering their meeting in Delhi 15 days earlier when Syngkon pushed for a National Institute of Social Defence in Meghalaya. Sangma said the MP’s charm, simplicity, and humility stood out, recalling how he once arrived early at a school event on a scooty.
The Chief Minister said he learnt of Syngkon’s collapse while reviewing budget papers on Thursday night, rushed to the hospital, and later accompanied the family as the body was taken to Pohskeh.
He announced a government holiday in Shillong constituency districts so people could attend the funeral.
Leader of Opposition Dr Mukul Sangma called the death irreparable, noting Syngkon’s patience and resolve in his brief but promising career.
He said the state had lost a young leader already making his mark at state and national levels, and prayed for strength for the family and loved ones.
Power Minister and UDP chief Metbah Lyngdoh said Dr. Syngkon’s death cut short a tenure that began with high expectations, noting he served only one year and nine months of a five-year term.
Lyngdoh praised his dedication, integrity, and moral principles, saying he performed assignments to the best of his ability and always acted with positive motives.
He added that he was heartened to hear of Syngkon’s meeting with the Chief Minister, which reflected his good intentions for the people.
MDA Chief Adviser and East Shillong MLA Ampareen Lyngdoh also paid tribute to Dr. Syngkon, urging politicians to follow his example of service over hatred. Though they campaigned on opposite sides in 2024, Lyngdoh recalled that Syngkon never resorted to personal attacks and remained committed to ideas and service.
She said his presence in the Lok Sabha showed politics at its best, and Meghalaya had lost not just a representative but a son of its own.
Following the obituary reference, the Budget Session of the Assembly was adjourned for the day.
Condolences pour in from across country
Condolences have poured in from across the country and the state following the demise of Shillong MP Dr Ricky Andrew J Syngkon.
President of India Droupadi Murmu expressed deep grief over his passing. She said Syngkon contributed to the development of Meghalaya and worked for the welfare of the people.
In a social media post, Prime Minister Modi said that Dr Syngkon will be remembered for his dedicated service to the people of Meghalaya.
Lok Sabh Speaker Om Birla said Syngkon’s dedication to duty will be recalled with deep respect and gratitude.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said his commitment to public service and the people of Meghalaya would be remembered with respect.
Union Ministers, Chief Ministers, State Ministers from across the country and the region, leaders of political parties, institutions, NGOs and others condoled the demise of the MP.
