Shillong, February 20: In a dramatic turn of events, the Meghalaya assembly session scheduled for today, which included the highly anticipated state budget presentation, is set to be adjourned as a mark of respect to Voice of the People Party (VPP) MP Ricky A J Syngkon, who passed away suddenly on Thursday evening.
The tragic news has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of the state. Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, visibly shaken by the loss, confirmed the development after holding urgent discussions with Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, who oversees parliamentary affairs.
“We have discussed with Deputy Chief Minister and in-charge of Parliamentary Affairs, Prestone Tynsong,” Sangma stated. He emphasized that postponing the day’s proceedings, even the crucial budget presentation, is necessary as “a mark of respect to the departed soul.”
A formal decision regarding the adjournment and the rescheduling of the budget will be finalized in a meeting of the Business Advisory Committee, chaired by the assembly speaker, scheduled for tomorrow.
MP Ricky Syngkon Collapses During Futsal Game
The untimely death of the 48-year-old MP has left the entire state in mourning. According to reports, Syngkon collapsed while playing futsal (indoor football) on the outskirts of Shillong. He was rushed to a private hospital, where doctors declared him dead upon arrival at around 8:45 PM.
Known for his youthful energy and connection with the masses, Syngkon’s sudden demise has created a void in the region’s political sphere. He was a first-time MP who defeated heavyweights to claim the Shillong seat, representing the aspirations of the Khasi and Jaintia Hills.
“A Great Loss for the State”: CM Conrad Sangma Remembers Syngkon
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, while addressing the media, recalled his last interaction with the late MP, highlighting the personal loss he feels.
“I had met Syngkon about two weeks back in Delhi… that was the last meeting and conversation I had with him,” Sangma said, reflecting on their discussions regarding Meghalaya’s development plans.
The Chief Minister hailed Syngkon’s dedication to the people, calling his death a “great loss for the state.” He praised the late parliamentarian’s character, stating, “Syngkon served the people with humility, vision and a sincere desire to uplift society.”
Sangma extended his “deepest condolences to the family of late Ricky Syngkon” and prayed for strength for his supporters, family, and party leaders during this difficult time.
Political Leaders Across Spectrum Pay Tributes
The news of Ricky Syngkon’s passing has prompted an outpouring of grief from political leaders across party lines. As the state mourns the loss of a leader who connected deeply with the youth and the common people, the focus remains on supporting his family and honoring his legacy of service.
The adjournment of the assembly session underscores the collective respect the House holds for the departed MP, putting state business aside to pay homage to a colleague who served with dedication and vision.
