SHILLONG, Dec 6: The Maitshaphrang, a Shillong-based social organisation, has appealed to both the central and state governments for due recognition to one of Meghalaya’s unsung heroines, Phan Nonglait, and her crucial role during India’s struggle for freedom.
The appeal was made on the occasion of the 172nd death anniversary of Nonglait on Tuesday.
Speaking to media persons here, Maitshaphrang chairman Michael Syiem said, “We urge upon the state government to observe December 6 as the Phan Nonglait Day, highlighting her contributions and sacrifices and also by instituting an award in her honour.”
Recalling that she was the first female fighter who assisted Tirot Sing Syiem and his men, he maintained that the role of Phan Nonglait in the freedom struggle is no less than Rani Lakshmi Bai of Jhansi, who is widely revered for her display of valiance in the Revolt of 1857.
Syiem also informed that apart from her role in Anglo-Khasi War between 1829 and 1833, Nonglait was instrumental in killing 32 British soldiers.
“According to Ratan Bhattarcharjee, she (Nonglait) is also considered as the first woman freedom fighter who countered the British forces with tactical inputs and guerilla tactics,” he said.
Syiem also informed that Maitshaphrang had staged a street play Ka drama jong ka Phan Nonglait in many localities and in Nongkhlaw village in 1994 and 1995, highlighting the contributions of Nonglait in the fight against the Britishers.
Meanwhile, KHNAM legislator Adelbert Nongrum, while backing Maitshaphrang’s appeal, informed that they will call on Arts and Culture Minister Sanbor Shullai on Wednesday to consider giving recognition to Nonglait.
He also suggested the state government to consider declaring December 6 as a state holiday just like it is done for other freedom fighters of Meghalaya such as Tirot Singh Syiem, Kiang Nangbah and Pa Togan Sangma. “This will be a befitting recognition to the first female fighter,” Nongrum added.
It may be mentioned that Phan Nonglait was born in 1799 and hailed from Rymmai village under Nongkhlaw.
She also played a crucial role during India’s struggle for freedom by assisting Tirot Singh in the fight against the British forces. She passed away in 1850 at Nongrmai village in Eastern West Khasi Hills due to a prolonged illness.
As a mark of respect and to pay tribute to her courage, the Lyngdoh Nonglait clan has preserved the basic daily utensils and the house of Phan Nonglait, so that the present generation can see and learn about Nonglait.
Recently, a book on the life of Phan Nonglait titled Ka Phan Nonglait – A Lady Freedom Fighter of India, authored by one of her descendants Daniel Stone Lyngdoh, was also released.
