From Our Correspondent
AMPATI, JAN 21: Meghalaya chief minister Mukul Sangma on
Saturday reminded the state of the non-violent movement of the hill state, which led to the creation of Meghalaya in 1972, carved out of Assam.
“It is this story of peaceful movement that the people of this generation must connect with and this story must be spread to others across the world” he said.
He expressed his deep sense of appreciation and gratitude to the leaders of the past, who out of love and compassion for the people, struggled relentlessly, culminating in the creation of the state without a single drop of blood being shed.
Mukul expressed his anguish that today’s youths have been resorting to all forms of violence piggy-riding on the name of the community, adding that all issues and grievances can always be resolved with the ambit of the constitution.
He said that Meghalaya’s strength lies in its people, who have exhibited strong bond of unity amongst different tribes.
Reminding the people that the small state was fortunate to have 60 legislators to voice the concern and aspiration of the people, the chief minister said, “It is in itself a biggest achievement of the visionary leaders, who had envisioned creation of the state”.
“Our electorates have the privilege of direct access to their representatives, which is otherwise not possible in bigger states,” he added.
He said that the people should be proud of this day and celebrate the creation of this state and educate the younger generation on the importance of this day.
The day-long celebration began with “Meghalaya Day Run” flagged off by South West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner Cyril V. Diengdoh and included events like food festival, display of stalls by various departments and flower arrangement.
The celebration also witnessed colourful cultural dances and songs presented by school children and various cultural groups.
During the official function, the chief minister distributed solar lanterns to class IX and class X students of the district under Meghalaya New & Renewable Energy Development Agency (MNREDA).
He also kicked started the semi final match of the Gramoday Football Tournament, which was played between Ampati GS Circle and Monabari GS Circle under Betasing C&RD Block. The final match will be played on January 26, next.
A peace concert was held in the evening at Ampati Students’ Field in which rock band from Shillong “Colours”, all-girl band “Haystack Ladies” and other local bands kept the audience on toes with their foot-tapping numbers. Government buildings and establishments were also illuminated to mark the occasion.
At Tura, sports and youth affairs minister Zenith Sangma attended the official ceremony and described the event as ‘historic’.
He said Meghalaya is on the threshold of reaching half century and recalled the tireless and selfless services of statehood champions like Captain Williamson A. Sangma, Nichols Roy, B.B. Lyngdoh and others.
Looking back, he said in these past 45 years, the state has made much progress in terms of developments. He also made a fervent appeal to all the misguided youths to give up their anti-social activities saying one cannot achieve one’s agenda by resorting to killing, kidnapping and extortions.
He also handed over ‘Appreciation Award’ to Biswajit Nandi for his outstanding contribution towards Bengali Literature, Prose & Poetry. Nandi is a Bengali Poet and author of international repute, who bagged numerous awards and appreciations.
Another notable feature of the event was the presentation of ‘Posthumous Award for Lifetime Achievement to Fridina K. Marak for her outstanding contributions towards the welfare and upliftment of Garo Society through her various social and educational works.
Fridina K Marak was a multifaceted and multitalented lady who had many firsts to her credit. She also held the post of Chairperson of Meghalaya Public Service Commission (MPSC) for many years. For her indomitable courage and outspokenness, she was both feared and revered and was often referred to as ‘Indira Gandhi of the Garos”.
Taking opportunity of this solemn occasion, a beautiful and aptly designed logo for celebration of 150 years of Tura town was also unveiled by the Zenith Sangma. It sets the ball rolling for yearlong celebration.
A series of cultural programmes were also held to mark the auspicious day.
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