By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Sep 13: The Meghalaya government has declared three days of mourning as a mark of respect for five-time chief minister DD Lapang, who breathed his last on Friday.
All official celebrations and major programmes have been cancelled for three days.
A state funeral will be held at 1 pm on Monday, preceded by prayers at Lapang’s residence at Lower Lachaumiere at 10 am.
The NPP headquarters in Shillong was engulfed by grief on Saturday evening as party members, leaders, and well-wishers gathered in memory of former chief minister DD Lapang.
A condolence prayer meeting was held, beginning with two minutes of silence, followed by prayers for the eternal peace of the departed soul.
NPP national president and Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma described the loss as deeply personal, apart from being a great void for the state.
He reflected on Lapang’s long political journey, recalling the veteran leader’s immeasurable service for Meghalaya and its people.
The chief minister shared that he learned much from observing Lapang’s career, which served as a constant source of inspiration. Extending condolences to the family, he prayed for their strength in bearing the loss.
Sangma revealed that he met Lapang just ten days before his hospitalisation and was struck by the sharpness of his mind and alertness even at that stage.
His recollections went back to 1988, when, as a young boy, he had first met Lapang during his father, Purno A. Sangma’s tenure as chief minister.
That meeting, he said, left a lasting impression on him, shaping the respect and admiration he carried for Lapang throughout his political journey.
The chief minister also spoke of Lapang’s role as Chief Adviser to the state government. He emphasised that the departed leader carried out the responsibility with remarkable seriousness and commitment despite his advanced age.
While some thought the position was ceremonial, Sangma said Lapang treated it with gravity, often calling or writing to share his views on important political developments. He expressed gratitude for the invaluable counsel, acknowledging how it guided the government during critical times.
For members of the NPP, Lapang was remembered not just as a political leader but as a fatherly figure and mentor.
They recalled his courage in leadership, his wisdom in decision-making, and his compassion in service. His absence, they said, leaves behind a void that cannot be replaced.
In quiet words of farewell, the NPP family bid him peace, vowing that his legacy would continue to inspire generations of leaders. One after another, party leaders recounted his towering contributions to Meghalaya and the enduring imprint he has left on its political life.
TMC state president and senior legislator Charles Pyngrope also paid tribute, recalling his long association with Lapang. He said he prayed for eternal peace for the departed soul and for strength to the bereaved family.
Pyngrope shared memories of serving under Lapang’s leadership in 2003-2004 and later, as Speaker, valued his guidance and advice that proved invaluable in conducting the Assembly’s proceedings.
The Meghalaya BJP condoled the death of the luminary politician.
“Known lovingly as Maheh, Lapang was a towering figure in our state’s political history, serving as chief minister for an incredible four terms. His life, a source of inspiration for generations to come, was a testament to resilience and an example of service to mankind. His compassion for fellow human beings earned him love and respect from all sections of society, making him one of the tallest ever leaders of Meghalaya,” the BJP said in a statement.
Lapang’s visionary leadership helped mould the future of our state and his deep insights played a pivotal role in the creation of Ri-Bhoi district. His humility, sense of fair play, unwavering honesty and firm determination to uplift the state earned him the respect and admiration of everyone, it added.
The Meghalaya Legislative Assembly conveyed profound grief at the passing of Lapang, veteran statesman and four-time CM, describing his death as an immense loss to the state and the nation.
In its condolence message, the Assembly Secretariat hailed Lapang as a towering figure in Meghalaya’s political landscape, one who devoted his life to public service and the welfare of citizens. It recalled his decades of leadership, his relentless commitment to development, and his ability to inspire respect across the political spectrum.
He was remembered not only for his wisdom and statesmanship but also for his warmth and generosity in personal interactions.
The Secretariat said that his legacy of service would continue to guide the state, while extending heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and well-wishers. Officials expressed the hope that his loved ones would find strength in the memories of his remarkable life and the positive impact he left behind.