SHILLONG, AUG 18: Rebecca V. Suchiang, (Retd) IAS, the first indigenous woman Chief Secretary of Meghalaya, passed away on Tuesday after a prolonged illness.
Condoling her death, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma paid tribute on X, calling her a leader known for courage and dedication.
“Grieved by the passing of former Chief Secretary of Meghalaya, Kong Rebecca V. Suchiang,” Sangma posted.
“As the first indigenous woman Chief Secretary, Kong Rebecca made bold decisions at tough times and was respected for her leadership among her peers, her guidance to her juniors and her inspiring work ethics. She fought bravely during her illness and continued to work even after it. Her service and dedication to the state will be remembered. Extend my deepest condolences to her family and her loved ones. May she rest in peace,” he added.
The Meghalaya IAS Officers’ Association also held a condolence meeting to mourn her demise.
In a statement, the Association hailed her “exemplary service and deep commitment to the cadre” across a career spanning more than three decades.
“Members remembered her unwavering commitment to work and strong sense of discipline, her unimpeachable integrity, and the kindness, generosity and genuine concern for everyone around her that endeared her to colleagues and juniors alike,” the Association said.
A 1989-batch IAS officer, Suchiang began her career as Sub-Divisional Officer (Civil) at Nongpoh and Sohra.
She later served in key roles including Deputy Commissioner of Ri-Bhoi, Commissioner of Taxes, Director and later Director General of MATI, and Commissioner of Division, Shillong.
She also held the posts of Commissioner & Secretary and Principal Secretary in several departments, including Personnel & Administrative Reforms, Home, Education, Finance, Cabinet Affairs, Tourism and Cooperation.Suchiang went on to serve as Additional Chief Secretary, Chairman-cum-Managing Director of MeECL, and Chairman of the Board of Revenue, before being appointed Chief Secretary of Meghalaya — becoming the first tribal woman to hold the office.
She retired on superannuation on July 31, 2022, and later served as the State Chief Information Commissioner.
The Association placed on record its profound appreciation of her distinguished service and conveyed its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.
A period of silence was observed and prayers were offered for the eternal peace of the departed soul.
By Our Reporter
