Shillong, Feb 21: Thousands of people gathered at Nongsder in Ri Bhoi district for the funeral of Shillong MP Dr Ricky Andrew Jones Syngkon, with mourners travelling from across the state to bid farewell to a political leader described as a leader with “zero haters”.
The sudden passing of the 54-year-old leader, who collapsed while playing futsal at Mawiong on February 19, has sent shockwaves across the state, leaving a void in the hearts of many.
The funeral service, held at the ICAR ground, was a solemn affair, with family, friends, and members of the public gathering to pay their last respects.
Among those present were several prominent state leaders, including Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, Leader of the Opposition Dr. Mukul Sangma, Nongkrem MLA and VPP President Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit, besides other MLAs, MDCs, and dignitaries.
Voice of the People Party (VPP) President Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit paid emotional tribute to Syngkon, describing him not only as a colleague but also as a close friend and confidant.
Basaiawmoit said Syngkon had inspired him to enter electoral politics and to champion the cause for clean and people-centric politics. His absence would be deeply felt within the party and the broader political community, he said.
The coffin of Syngkon, who was also the founding general secretary of the VPP, was draped in the party flag. The atmosphere was heavy with emotion as the cortege proceeded to the Presbyterian Church cemetery at Sumer, where Syngkon was laid to rest.
Meanwhile, shops and financial establishments from Motphran to Police Bazar remained closed while taxis under the All Khasi Tourist Taxi Association (AKMTTA) did not operate to honour the departed MP.
The state government had declared a public holiday on Saturday as a mark of respect for the Shillong MP and to enable people to attend his last rites.
Pressure groups in the Khasi-Jaintia region closed down banks, financial institutions, private establishments, and other institutions as a mark of respect for the funeral of Syngkon.
