Shillong: The mortal remains of Meghalaya Lok Sabha MP Ricky AJ Syngkon were laid to rest on Saturday evening at a Christian cemetery in Sumer village, Ri-Bhoi district, as thousands gathered to bid farewell to the young parliamentarian.
A large funeral service was held earlier in the day at Nongsder ground, drawing political leaders, academicians, religious figures, party workers, supporters and members of the public, along with Syngkon’s family.
The atmosphere was marked by grief and collective remembrance, with tributes pouring in from across the state.
Syngkon, who was also the founding general secretary of the Voice of the People Party, was remembered for his commitment to grassroots politics and people-centric governance.
As a mark of respect, the Meghalaya government declared Saturday a public holiday, enabling citizens across the state to attend his last rites.
In the state capital, shops and financial institutions remained largely closed during the morning hours, while traffic movement was minimal as residents observed the day in solemnity.
VPP president Ardent M Basaiawmoit paid an emotional tribute, describing Syngkon as not just a political colleague but a close friend and confidant.
He said Syngkon had inspired him to enter electoral politics and to work for clean, transparent and people-oriented governance.
His passing, Basaiawmoit said, would leave a deep void within the party and Meghalaya’s wider political landscape.
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Condolences were also conveyed by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, whose message was read out during the funeral service.
Basaiawmoit also shared condolence messages from party members and expressed gratitude to all those who came forward to pay their respects.
Dr Syngkon, 54, passed away on February 19 after collapsing while playing futsal. He was later declared dead at a hospital.
Elected to the Lok Sabha in 2024 on a VPP ticket, he was widely known for his strong grassroots connect and his vocal advocacy on governance and public accountability issues.
His death has left a profound sense of loss across Meghalaya, with leaders and citizens alike remembering him as a dedicated public servant and a rising voice in the state’s political life.
As Report
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