From Our Correspondent
NONGPOH, Sep 14: As a mark of condolence and respect to the late Dr DD Lapang—fondly remembered as the “Father of Ri-Bhoi district”—a special prayer and remembrance service was held on Sunday morning at his statue erected by the Young Minds Association in the premises of Ri Bhoi College, Nongpoh. The service was organised ahead of his funeral, scheduled on Monday in Shillong.
Moreover, Ri-Bhoi district will observe a holiday on Monday to honour the memory of the former Chief Minister.
Dr Lapang passed away on September 12. He was 96.
The gathering, led by Nongpoh MLA Mayralborn Syiem, was attended by several prominent personalities including Nongpoh MDC Rona Khymdeit, former Nongpoh MDC Balajied Rani, leaders of the Ri Bhoi Dorbar such as RB Shadap and RR Makdoh, Principal of Alpha English Higher Secondary School WK Blah, faculty members of Ri Bhoi College, members of the Ri Bhoi Youth Federation, the Ri Bhoi People’s Council, religious leaders, school students, and the general public.
Speakers at the programme, including Mayralborn Syiem, expressed deep sorrow at the demise of Dr. Lapang, describing it as a great loss not only for Ri-Bhoi but for the entire state.
They recalled his pivotal role in the creation of Ri-Bhoi district and his tireless efforts to bring development across constituencies, the district, and Meghalaya as a whole.
The gathering also conveyed heartfelt condolences to Dr. Lapang’s family, praying that God may grant them strength and comfort during this time of grief, and for the departed leader’s soul to rest in eternal peace in the hands of the Almighty.
As part of the programme, floral tributes were also offered at Dr. Lapang’s statue as a final gesture of honour before his burial tomorrow in Shillong.
It may be noted that Ri-Bhoi Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal has announced that all government offices, revenue and magisterial courts, educational institutions, banks and financial institutions in the district will remain closed on Monday as a mark of respect to Dr Lapang, who passed away on September 12.
According to the official notification, the closure has been declared to honour the memory of Lapang and to acknowledge his distinguished service to the state and its people.
In this regard, heads of offices, educational institutions and other concerned authorities have been directed to ensure compliance with the order.
