SHILLONG, Jan 30: Along with the rest of the country, Meghalaya on Friday observed the 78th Martyrs’ Day (Shaheed Diwas) with solemn tributes and a two-minute silence in memory of those who sacrificed their lives for India’s freedom. The day also marks the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.
In Shillong, senior government officials, led by Principal Secretary FR Kharkongor, laid wreaths at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at the Main Secretariat, paying homage to the leader whose principles of non-violence guided India’s Independence movement.
At 10:59 am, a siren was sounded across Meghalaya to signal the commencement of the observance, followed by two minutes of silence at 11 am. Government offices temporarily halted work, while public and vehicular movement came to a standstill as people paused to honour the freedom fighters.
Authorities had earlier requested all citizens to stand in silence upon hearing the siren, ensuring that normal activity stopped during the observance.
As part of the protocol, All India Radio suspended broadcasting, and traffic was brought to a complete halt for the duration. A second siren at 11:02 am indicated the end of the tribute.
