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Tura, October 25, 2025:
The 35th Death Anniversary of (L) Capt. Williamson A. Sangma, the first Chief Executive Member of the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) and the first Chief Minister of Meghalaya, was solemnly observed today at the GHADC premises, Tura.

The occasion was graced by Timothy D. Shira, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Government of Meghalaya, as the Chief Guest. Among the dignitaries present were Miani D. Shira, MLA of Ampati, along with her husband Daryl William Cheran Momin, grandson of the late leader; Albinush Marak, Chief Executive Member (CEM) of GHADC; Nikman Ch. Marak, Deputy CEM; Executive Members; and other distinguished guests.

The commemoration began with a Rashtriya Salute presented by the 2nd MLP Battalion, Goeragre, followed by floral tributes at the statue of the late leader. A minute of silence was observed in his honour. Rev. Rinje N. Sangma, Assistant Professor at HTC, Edenbari, led the gathering in prayer, while members of the Tura Music Academy offered a musical tribute to the revered statesman.

Delivering his address, Chief Guest Timothy D. Shira paid glowing tributes to Capt. Sangma, describing him as the foremost leader of Garo Hills, a visionary statesman, and the architect of Meghalaya’s political awakening. Recalling his childhood, he said that in those days there was no political organization in Garo Hills, and it was Capt. Sangma who convened the first meeting of the Garo National Council, drawing together many influential and respected leaders of the time.

He reminisced that during the post-independence period, when the hill tribes faced tremendous challenges including displacement, migration to the plains, and social pressures such as forced cultural and religious assimilation, Capt. Sangma rose in defence of his people. He strongly advocated for the protection of the rights, identity, and traditional customs of the tribal communities.

Shira further recounted that during the years when the present-day Meghalaya was still a part of Assam, Capt. Sangma held a respectable government position but chose to resign and stand firmly with his people when the question of identity arose. When the Assam leadership sought to make Assamese the official state language, Capt. Sangma courageously opposed the decision and championed the cause of the hill people. He worked tirelessly to preserve their distinct language, culture, and traditions, believing deeply that the unique heritage of the hill tribes must be safeguarded for future generations.

The Minister emphasized that Capt. Sangma’s leadership during those pivotal years was instrumental in awakening political consciousness among the people and in laying the foundation for self-governance. His unrelenting determination and foresight ultimately culminated in the formation of the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council and later, in the historic creation of the State of Meghalaya. Shri Shira praised the late leader’s unmatched contributions to the social, cultural, and political upliftment of the tribal population, describing him as a man of vision, conviction, and integrity whose legacy continues to inspire generations.

The commemoration concluded with dignitaries and attendees offering floral tributes at the grave of (L) Capt. Williamson A. Sangma, marking a solemn close to the observance. The day served as a reminder of the late leader’s monumental contributions to the State, his lifelong dedication to the welfare of his people, and his historic role in shaping the identity and destiny of Meghalaya.

In a related programme, a book release ceremony on the life and legacy of (L) Capt. Williamson A. Sangma was also held earlier in the day at Moksh Villa, Tura. The event was graced by Thomas A. Sangma, Hon’ble Speaker of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, as the Chief Guest. Authored by Dr. Andrew Simons, Commissioner & Secretary of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, the book was formally unveiled in the presence of officers, family members, and well-wishers.

In his address, the Hon’ble Speaker paid heartfelt tributes to Capt. Sangma, describing him as a visionary leader whose ideals and statesmanship continue to inspire generations. He expressed deep appreciation to Dr. Simons and his dedicated team from the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly for their exemplary work in researching, compiling, and publishing the valuable volume. He noted that their efforts have ensured that Capt. Sangma’s life and legacy remain accessible to future generations.

Thomas A. Sangma further remarked that the team’s commitment to documenting the life, thoughts, and contributions of Meghalaya’s first Chief Minister reflects not only scholarly excellence but also profound respect and gratitude for one of the State’s greatest sons.