Shillong, July 17: Chief Minister Conrad Sangma and various groups in Khasi Hills joined in paying tribute at separate functions to Khasi warrior U Tirot Sing Syiem on the occasion of his 188th death anniversary, on Monday.
Addressing a function held at Mairang, Conrad said, “It is an honour and a privilege to be present today as we commemorate the death anniversary of U Tirot Sing, a true patriot. U Tirot Sing was not only a remarkable freedom fighter but also a symbol of unwavering courage and resilience in the face of British colonial rule. I urge the students and youngsters among us to emulate the leadership qualities and perseverance of our historic leader.”
“The government of Meghalaya believes it is of the utmost importance to document the lives and accomplishments of our extraordinary historical figures by utilising the talents of the youth. The government supports the efforts of the Khasi Autonomous District Council and other district councils to record and publish the biographies of our leaders”, he said.
Earlier in the day, Leaders of the Khasi Students, Union (KSU), Hynniewtrep National Youth Front (HNYF), Hynniewtrep Integrated Territorial Organization (HITO) and FKJGP among others paid tribute to the patriot.
Floral wreaths were laid and a minute of silence was observed in front of the statue of the freedom fighter at Madan Iewrynghep here.
Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) leaders- vice chairman Manbhalang Jyrwa and political secretary Aristerwell Thongni paid floral tribute and saluted the statue of U Tirot Sing.
‘Implement ILP’
KSU chief Lambok Starwell Marngar asked the state cabinet to go to Delhi and return with a positive outcome by ensuring immediate implementation of the inner line permit (ILP) in Meghalaya and inclusion of the Khasi language in the 8th Schedule to the Constitution.
Speaking to reporters, Marngar said, “We convey our best wishes to all the cabinet ministers for their upcoming meeting with the Government of India and that they should return with a reply that will make people of the state happy which is to implement ILP and include Khasi language in the 8th Schedule”.
