State pays tribute to freedom fighter on 191st death anniversary
SHILLONG, July 17: Urging the people of Meghalaya to emulate the courage, sacrifice and ideals of U Tirot Sing, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Friday led tributes to the legendary Khasi freedom fighter on his 191st death anniversary, as commemorative events were held across Shillong to honour his enduring legacy.
In a post on X, Sangma remembered U Tirot Sing as a fearless freedom fighter of Meghalaya and paid tribute to his unwavering courage, sacrifice and indomitable spirit in defending the land and its people.
Calling upon the people to draw inspiration from the life and ideals of the legendary Khasi leader, the chief minister said his enduring legacy should continue to inspire the people of the state to uphold their rich culture and traditions, remain steadfast in their convictions, and strive for justice, equality and the greater good of society.
Describing U Tirot Sing’s sacrifice as a timeless source of inspiration, Sangma said the iconic leader’s commitment to protecting his people and homeland remains deeply relevant even today.
He said the observance of the freedom fighter’s death anniversary serves as an occasion to honour his extraordinary contribution and reaffirm the values of courage, unity and selfless service that he embodied.
The chief minister concluded his message by urging the people of Meghalaya to preserve and carry forward the ideals championed by U Tirot Sing for the benefit of future generations.
Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM,) Shillong city district, formally announced the formation of its Shillong City team during a programme held to commemorate the 191st death anniversary of U Tirot Sing.
The programme began with the offering of floral tributes to the legendary Khasi freedom fighter, with BJP leaders, BJYM members and invited guests paying homage to his contribution and sacrifice. The organisers said the event was held to honour U Tirot Sing’s courage, patriotism and enduring legacy, which continues to inspire generations in Meghalaya.
A major highlight of the programme was the prize distribution ceremony for an online reel-making competition organised on the theme, ‘Inspiration of U Tirot Sing to Youths in Taking Up the Nation First Policy’.
According to the BJYM, the competition received more than 100 entries from participants who showcased their perspectives on the relevance of U Tirot Sing’s ideals and their significance for the youth.
Rishotbaskhem Kharlyngdoh was awarded the first prize, while Lasanshwa Rani and Kamwadathrang Rabon secured the second and third positions respectively.
The event was attended by renowned Meghalaya neurosurgeon Dr Bernard Lyngdoh as the chief guest. Senior leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party, office-bearers of the BJYM and party workers were also present.
The BJYM said the observance served not only as a tribute to one of Meghalaya’s most revered freedom fighters but also as an opportunity to encourage young people to draw inspiration from his life and ideals.
The organisation added that the newly constituted Shillong City BJYM team would work towards strengthening the youth wing’s organisational activities and outreach in the city.
The Raid Laban Sports Social and Cultural Organisation also commemorated the 191st death anniversary of U Tirot Sing Syiem with a floral tribute ceremony at the Warriors Memorial Garden in Kench’s Trace.
Local MLA and organisation president Sanbor Shullai attended the event as the chief guest.
The ceremony commenced with prayers and the laying of wreaths at the bust of the Khasi freedom fighter. Following the formal tribute, traditional food and refreshments were served to those in attendance.
As part of the observance, the organisation also distributed food and snack packets to underprivileged children and residents across the South Shillong constituency.
