SHILLONG: The 189th death anniversary of legendary patriot U Tirot Sing Syiem was observed in Meghalaya on Wednesday.
The event was held at the U Tirot Sing Memorial at Mairang.
The Meghalaya unit of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) paid fitting tributes to the Khasi freedom fighter on his death anniversary. The party demanded national recognition for the freedom fighter and urged the Centre to unveil a portrait of the patriot in the parliament.
The party raised the demands at a commemoration ceremony held at the BJP headquarters in Shillong by the party’s office bearers.
The event was attended by state vice president Khrawboklang Basaiawmoit, national council member David Kharsati, and state chief spokesperson Mariahom Kharkrang, among others.
The BJP also reiterated its long-standing request to the postal department to release a stamp in honour of the freedom fighter. Besides, the party also requested the Education Ministry to incorporate Syiem’s story in history textbooks to inspire future generations of the country.
BJP Mahila Morcha, Meghalaya, led by its president Susuki Pariat and BJYM team and youth president Mebaker Lyngdoh, paid floral tributes at U Tirot Singh Syiem’s statue at State Central Library. It was followed by a cleaning drive in the city to spread awareness about the great freedom fighter.
“Better die an independent king than reign as the vassal” –these were the immortal words of U Tirot Sing, the chief of Nongkhlaw, who took on the might of the British and achieved martyrdom in his endeavour to defend the freedom of his country.
Taking to social media, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said, “Remembering U Tirot Sing, a fearless freedom fighter, on his 189th death anniversary. Let’s honor his bravery & sacrifice, and be inspired to protect our land, culture & traditions. May his legacy motivate us to stand up for our beliefs, fight for justice & equality.”
