The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) paid rich tributes to legendary Khasi freedom fighter, U Tirot Sing Syiem on his 190th death anniversary, demanding the state government to prioritise implementing effective laws to protect the land and its people.
KSU president Lambokstarwell Marngar while addressing a function here today criticised lawmakers for wasting time in blame games instead of discussing and enacting laws that benefit the people.
Marngar stressed that the state government and those in power should focus on implementing effective laws to protect the indigenous people and their land, rather than merely attending ceremonial events and cutting ribbons.
He also accused the government of selectively addressing issues that serve their interests, such as the introduction of railways, while ignoring critical concerns affecting the jaitbynriew (indigenous people).
Marngar asserted that the government’s push for railways is driven by self-interest rather than a genuine concern for public welfare.
The Hynñiewtrep Youth Council (HYC) unveiled a life-size statue of the freedom fighter at Laitarted in Nongthliew under Eastern West Khasi Hills district.
The event was attended by leaders of HYC, traditional heads, elders of Hima Nongkhlaw (Nongkhlaw State), and locals who paid floral tributes and observed a moment of silence in honour of the fallen hero.
HYC president Roy Kupar Synrem said the statue serves as a reminder of the courage and determination of U Tirot Sing in defending his land and people.
“We want the country to give him the recognition he deserves in modern history books. He fought for our rights, our identity, and our land from the colonial forces. This monolith is our tribute to U Tirot Sing and all unsung heroes of the Khasi resistance,” Synrem said.
The State BJP also commemorated the day by holding a series of programs, including floral tributes to the renowned freedom fighter’s statue at the trisemble in State Central Library.
The party resolved to petition the central government to provide the freedom fighter national recognition and widely publicise his deeds across the country.
State BJP Chief Spokesperson MariahomKharkrang said that the party will continue to honour all freedom fighters of Meghalaya to ensure their legacy continues to inspire every generation of the state and nation.
