Tearful Tribute to "King of the Garos"
Source: The Sangai Express / Courtesy Northeast Today

Shillong, March 05 2016 : It's a sordid Saturday for the people of the Northeast region.

People from all walks of life assembled at Tura in West Garo Hills, Meghalaya to get a glimpse of Purno Agitok Sangma, the departed leader, who's fondly called � "King of the Garos" .

A sea of humanity waited anxiously since early in the morning to be a part of his last journey through the street of Tura.

Shops and other establishment remained closed as a mark of respect to their dear hero.

When Sangma's mortal remains reached at Doba-sipara helipad at around 12:40 pm.

Over 500 vehicles, accompanied the entourage as his mortal remains was taken out from the helipad.

People were seen visibly emotional as they stood in silence as the entourage passed through the routes of Tura.

Both his sons � James and Conrad � were standing by the casket along with the personnel of Meghalaya policemen, as the vehicle passed through the streets of Tura.

An emotional crowd of over 5,000 plus people waited at his residence, who busted in tears as his casket was taken out from the vehicle.

Tearful Tribute to "King of the Garos"

Speaking at the condolence meeting at Sangma's residence, Union Minister of State (Home) Kiren Rijiju said, "He was the first politician from Northeast, who was the face of the region and championed the cause of his people and the entire Northeast.

He has connected us to rests of India" .

Describing him as a guide and a mentor, Rijiju said, "We have learned a lot from PA Sangma sahab.

Cutting across political ideologies, he gave ideas for development of Northeast and always worked for the people.

We have not forgotten his ideas; we will always work to fulfill his unfinished tasks," adding, "We will always remember him in our hearts and will take his ideas as a guide" .

Describing Sangma as an 'iconic figure' and a 'role model', Jitendra Singh, Minister of DoNER, said, "Ever since I became minister of DoNER, I have been in touch with Sangmaji seeking his guidance on how to initiate development works for Northeast" .

Echoing Rijiju, Jitendra said, "Sangmaji was a visible face of Northeast.

Everyone should emulate him, which will be a befitting tribute to the great soul, who has been a role model for many politicians in the country" .

Expressing his deepest condolence, Meghalaya Governor V Shanmuganathan compared Purno Sangma with the Himalayas and said, "PA Sangma was a person of generosity.

Atalji in poetic words used to describe him as a rainfall, who made his presence everywhere.

He has shaped thoughts of the people in the country.

He still lives in our heart" .

Describing Sangma as a 'broad-minded person', the Governor said, "His legacy will live forever in Meghalaya.

His concern for the people will live for posterity.

His vision for the people of Northeast will always guide politicians.

His contribution will long be remembered" .

Sangma's youngest son Conrad Sangma thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi on behalf of the people of Garo Hills and Government of India for extending support for ensuring that his mortal remains reaches Tura in an appropriate time.

Breaking down while speaking to the crowd, Conrad said, "My father and mother used to fight because of us (four siblings) as we were naughty.

My mother used to tell my father to take care of us but my father said that it was my mothers' responsibility as his children were the people of Garo Hills" .