The 162nd death anniversary of freedom fighter U Kiang Nangbah was observed today in the state.
At the statue of Nangbah, who led resistance in Jaintia Hills to British rule in the 19th century, near Shillong Civil Hospital floral tributes were paid by pressure groups and a political party.
Lambokstar Marngar, the president of the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), used the opportunity to slam the state government, saying that while the British only executed Kiang Nangbah, the current rulers in the Secretariat seem intent on executing the aspirations of the Khasi-Jaintia community. He expressed frustration that the demands for the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) and other laws have not been addressed.
He threatened to intensify demands for these tools to curb migration in the coming year.
Samuel Jyrwa, chairman of the North East Students’ Organisation (NESO), stated that Nangbah fought against the powerful British forces for the freedom of the Khasi-Jaintia people and his legacy should not be forgotten.
Earlier, Thomas Passah, leader of the Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM), lamented that the current generation is increasingly forgetting the significance of Nangbah’s sacrifices.
Separately, Meghalaya Governor CH Vijayashankar attended events today in Jaintia Hills where he paid tribute to the legendary freedom fighter.
He described Nangbah’s leadership during the 1862 uprising against British colonial rule as a timeless example of courage and commitment to protecting the Jaintia community’s cultural and moral values. He also acknowledged the role of organisations like the Seinraij Jowai in preserving the cultural identity and traditions of the Pnar people.
Later, the Governor graced a programme organised by the Passah clan where he praised their efforts in preserving sacred sites and indigenous traditions. Addressing the gathering, he highlighted the importance of unity and cultural identity, lauding the clan’s dedication as a model for other communities in safeguarding traditional values.
On his return to Shillong, Vijayashankar visited the historic Nartiang Temple and the renowned Nartiang Monoliths.
