Condolences keep pouring in
By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Sep 14: Former Chief Minister DD Lapang will be laid to rest with full state honours on Monday.
The state funeral will be held at Students’ Field, Jaiaw, at 1 pm and is expected to be attended by Cabinet ministers, senior political leaders, and government officials.
Thousands of people from across the Khasi and Jaintia Hills, particularly Ri-Bhoi, are expected to pay their respects to one of the tallest leaders of the state and the last surviving member of the first Meghalaya Assembly (1972-78).
Lapang, who passed away on Friday, was among Meghalaya’s most prominent politicians, dominating the state’s political landscape for nearly half a century.
Meanwhile, the Directorate of School Education and Literacy has directed that all schools in the vicinity of Students’ Field, including those in Jaiaw and Mawkhar, remain closed on Monday.
On Saturday, the Meghalaya government announced three days of mourning as a mark of respect to the five-time Chief Minister. All official celebrations and major programmes have been cancelled.
UDP expresses grief
The United Democratic Party (UDP) on Sunday expressed profound sorrow at Lapang’s demise.
In a condolence statement, UDP president Metbah Lyngdoh described him as a towering statesman dedicated to the service of the people and the progress of the state.
“Late former Chief Minister embodied integrity, humility, and visionary leadership. His contributions to education, healthcare, rural development, and infrastructure uplifted countless lives and strengthened the foundations of our state,” Lyngdoh said.
He added that Lapang was not only a political leader but also a mentor and unifying force across communities. Extending condolences to the bereaved family, particularly his wife Amethyst Lynda Jomas Blah, Lyngdoh said, “We pray that Almighty God grants them strength and comfort during this time of grief. His loss is deeply felt by all, and his legacy will continue to inspire us in public service.”
City school’s condolences
On the other hand, Gorkha Pathshala Higher Secondary School, Upper Mawprem, held a meeting held at its premises to condole the demise of former CM Lapang.
The meeting prayed for eternal peace to Lapang, while expressing solidarity with the members of the bereaved family.
FKJGP’s tribute
The Federation of Khasi, Jaintia and Garo People (FKJGP) also expressed deep sorrow, describing Lapang as an eminent leader who made immense contributions to the state through his long political career.
FKJGP president Dundee C. Khongsit said Lapang’s work cannot be fully measured. “The seeds he sowed have borne fruits that we can clearly see even today, and his legacy will continue to live on for generations,” he said.
Khongsit added that his passing is a huge loss not only to his family but also to the community and the state as a whole.
A’chik body condolence
The A’chik Citizens’ Welfare Organization (ACWO), Shillong, also mourned the passing of Lapang, fondly remembered as Maheh.
In a statement, the ACWO described him as a true statesman—approachable, compassionate, and responsive to the needs of the people. The organization recalled his constant support, willingness to help, and fairness in public life.
“His passing is not only a great loss to our state but also to every citizen who had the privilege of knowing him,” the ACWO said, conveying its deepest condolences to the bereaved family.
The organization added that Lapang’s legacy of service and leadership will always be remembered with the highest respect.