TURA/SHILLONG, Aug 16: Former Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Salseng C Marak passed away on Friday at the Tura Civil Hospital due to age-related ailments. He was 83.
He was undergoing treatment at the Holy Cross Hospital and later, shifted to the Tura Civil Hospital following the deterioration of his health.
Marak served as the chief minister from 1993-98. He was among the few who managed to complete a full term in an era where politics was marked by instability and fall of governments was common.
A hardcore Congressman, he continued in the party till the end. He represented the Resubelpara constituency in North Garo Hills.
Marak was born in Baghmara in South Garo Hills and attended Scottish Church College in Kolkata.
He held the Resubelpara seat from 1970 to 2008 before being defeated by Timothy D Shira. He won it back in 2013 before once again losing to Shira. He did not contest the 2023 elections on health grounds.
Marak, who was Meghalaya’s sixth chief minister, saw the state pass through turbulent times.
The government has announced a state funeral for the veteran leader to be held at his home in Resubelpara’s Gajingpara on Saturday.
It will be attended by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, Tura MP Saleng Sangma, Deputy Speaker Timothy D Shira and Mendipathar MLA Marthon Sangma, among others. The performance of last rites is expected to begin at 12 noon. The departed leader will be laid to rest at the Gajingpara cemetery.
Meanwhile, all state government offices across the state will observe state mourning for three days with effect from Friday as a mark of respect for him. During the period, the national flag will be flown at half-mast and there will be no official entertainment.
Condolences poured in from various quarters.
“Deeply saddened to learn of the demise of former CM Salseng C Marak. His contributions to Meghalaya’s development will always be remembered. My condolences to his family and loved ones. May he rest in peace,” CM Sangma posted on X.
Assembly Speaker Thomas A Sangma expressed shock over Marak’s demise.
“His unwavering dedication to the people of our state and his significant contributions to the community will always be remembered,” the Speaker said in a condolence message.
“When he was the chief minister of the state from 1993 to 1998, I had the privilege of associating with him as a young party worker of the Congress. During his tenure, Mr. Marak exemplified remarkable leadership, integrity, vision, and service. He played a vital role in the advancement of Meghalaya, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations,” the Speaker added.
Expressing grief, South Shillong MLA Sanbor Shullai said Marak was highly admired and a respected social, political and religious leader who was known for his contribution for the welfare of peace, prosperity and humanity.
The Assembly Secretariat also mourned the death.
“As one of the last political stalwarts from the state, he will be remembered for his dedication and contribution to the State. His long innings in the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly and other services rendered to the people and the State of Meghalaya demonstrates the love and support that he enjoyed with the people. He contributed immensely for the progress and development of the State as a Chief Minister and Minister holding different portfolios from time to time,” the Assembly Secretariat said in a condolence message.
The Ex-MLAs’ Forum remembered Marak’s contributions towards the progress and development of Meghalaya.
“He leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations. In his passing, the state has lost one of its great leaders,” the forum said in a condolence message.
