Shillong, Feb 20: The Meghalaya Assembly session scheduled for February 20, including the presentation of the state budget, is likely to be adjourned as a mark of respect to Shillong MP Ricky A J Syngkon, who died suddenly on Thursday evening.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said the government was considering suspending proceedings after discussions with Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, who is in charge of parliamentary affairs. A meeting of the Business Advisory Committee, chaired by the Assembly Speaker, is scheduled to take a final decision.
Syngkon reportedly collapsed while playing futsal on the outskirts of Shillong and was rushed to a private hospital, where doctors declared him dead at around 8:45 pm.
Sangma said that postponing the day’s proceedings, including the budget presentation, would serve as a mark of respect to the departed leader. Expressing shock over the news, he recalled meeting Syngkon in Delhi about two weeks ago to discuss development plans for Meghalaya, describing it as their last interaction.
The Chief Minister termed Syngkon’s passing a great loss for the state, particularly for the people of Khasi and Jaintia Hills, and praised his humility and commitment to public service. He conveyed his deepest condolences to Syngkon’s family and prayed for strength for his supporters and party colleagues during the difficult time.
