SHILLONG: Lack of literature on the first Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Capt. W A Sangma, whose 25th death anniversary was observed on Sunday, has deprived the younger generation of any knowledge about the contribution of the great leader to the Northeast and the country as a whole.
Former Lok Sabha Speaker and Tura MP PA Sangma on Sunday admitted that there is a need to do more to popularize Capt. Sangma including publication of books to make the younger generation aware of his contribution.
“He is the undisputed leader of the Garos and was the Chief Executive Member of the GHADC in its formation stage. Besides, he was the first Garo Minister in Assam, and the first Garo Governor of Mizoram,” Sangma told The Shillong Times over phone on Sunday.
Sangma also acknowledged that he learnt many things including the art of politics by being associated with the Garo leader for almost 10 years.
The former Lok Sabha Speaker also said that the GHADC has been asked to take steps to ensure that the contribution of Capt. Sangma is made known.
“Someone has handed over to me the only book written in Garo about Capt. Sangma and I gave the book yesterday to the new Chief Executive Member in GHADC. This book needs to be reproduced and circulated,” Sangma said, adding that the English translation of the book will also help people to know more about the great leader.
Sangma recalled that there is no book written in English about Capt. Sangma though Khasi writer RT Rymbai made an attempt to write a book on the great leader, but he could not complete it.
Sangma hoped that the new Executive Committee of the GHADC will try to do something befitting in memory of late Capt. Sangma and added that he can contribute in whatever way possible in this regard.
The grandson of Capt. Sangma, Daryl Momin said that he cherishes the contribution of his grandfather who worked for the overall wellbeing of the Garos.
He also took part in the commemoration function organized by GHADC on Sunday on the 25th death anniversary of Capt. Sangma.
