Meghalaya government today accorded state funeral to former chief minister Salseng C Marak, who passed away in Tura yesterday.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma and a host of cabinet ministers, Tura MP Saleng Sangma, Assembly Speaker Thomas Sangma, Deputy Speaker Thimothy D Shira, and former chief minister Dr Mukul Sangma attended the funeral held at the Resubelpara mini stadium.
The mortal remains was later buried at the Gajingpara cemetery,
The 83-year old veteran Congress leader had served the state in various capacities from a humble school teacher, then headmaster and to becoming the sixth chief minister of Meghalaya from 1993 – 1998.
Marak was the first CM of Meghalaya to serve a full five-year term but he was also Chief Minister for the shortest period – 12 days – in 1998.
A three-day state mourning was also observed as a mark of respect for the former chief minister.
“His demise has left a deep void in our state and we mourn the loss of such influential leader but let his contributions as a legislator in bringing significant impact on the state’s political history be remembered”, chief minister Conrad Sangma said.
“He has demonstrated unwavering commitment in shaping the political scenario of the state even during times of uncertainty and let his dedication to address the needs of the people serves as an inspiration for all of us and cherish his memory for generations to come,” added Conrad.
Bidding final farewell to the departed soul, Conrad said, “At the end he will be remembered as an understanding leader, a loving husband and father and above all a good human being”.
Gun salutes by riflemen and floral tributes was paid by several dignitaries of the state and a series of condolences messages from various leaders were also read out during the funeral.
