The Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav events in the state today remembered heroes local to Meghalaya who had fought for independence from the British, like Togan Nengminja Sangma and Tirot Sing Syiem.
In East Garo Hills, the day was observed at the Togan Memorial Part in Chisobibra near Williamnagar where the Garo hero was honoured for giving up his life in the struggle against the British.
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Commissioner Swapnil Tembe urged the people of the region to follow the footsteps of Togan Nengminja to safeguard the nation as a whole.
In Tura, a brief programme was held with Deputy Commissioner Ram Singh and staff paying befitting tribute to all freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for India’s independence namely, Bhagat Singh, Sardar Vallabhai Patel, Subhas Chandra Bose, Mahatma Gandhi and the Garo Hills patriot Togan Nengminja Sangma.
As explained by the DC, the launch programme was held as per the directions of the government of India and he informed that a committee will be formed in order to plan out activities for celebrating the 75th anniversary of Indian independence in the district.
In the Mairang civil subdivision, the life and contribution of one of the state’s freedom fighters, Tirot Sing Syiem, was commemorated at his native village of Nongkhlaw.
The event was held in the Khasi Patriotic Home, Nongkhlaw and was organised by the office of the Additional Deputy Commissioner.
In his address T Lyngwa, Deputy Commissioner of West Khasi Hills, said that the district is fortunate to have a native freedom fighter like Tirot Sing Syiem, who is known around the world, and that it is because of the struggles and sacrifices made by people like him that we are able to attain independence from British rule. Lyngwa also said that we are no longer in an age to fight war with swords but we must now fight intellectually to make our future a secure one.
Earlier in the day, a bicycle rally was also held from Tirot Sing Memorial Hall, Pyndengumioing, to Khasi Patriotic Home, Nongkhlaw, covering a distance of 16 kilometres.
