Meghalaya Assembly Adjourns Budget Session Following MP's Sudden Death
The Meghalaya legislative assembly adjourned its budget session on Friday, suspending all scheduled proceedings including the presentation of the state budget by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma. This decision came in response to the sudden demise of Shillong Member of Parliament Ricky Andrew J Syngkon, who passed away earlier in the week.
Official Announcement and Session Suspension
Speaker Thomas A Sangma informed the assembly that an emergent meeting of the business advisory committee had been convened with the government's consent. Following this meeting, it was resolved to suspend the day's legislative activities out of respect for the tragic loss. The assembly convened briefly to make obituary references honoring the departed parliamentarian before officially adjourning for the day.
The speaker further announced that the presentation of the state budget and the reply to the motion of thanks on the governor's address would be rescheduled. This will require a revision of the session calendar, with new dates to be announced in due course.
Remembering Ricky Andrew J Syngkon
Syngkon, aged 54, was a first-time MP representing the Voice of the People Party (VPP). He passed away on February 19 after suffering a cardiac arrest while playing futsal at Mawiong. The parliamentarian had won the Shillong parliamentary seat in the 2024 general election with a resounding victory, entering the 18th Lok Sabha as a strong voice for Meghalaya and the broader northeast region.
Cross-Party Tributes and National Recognition
Leaders across political lines expressed profound grief at his passing, remembering him as a committed public servant and active parliamentarian. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, and leaders from various political parties and organizations paid heartfelt tributes.
They described his death as a major loss for Meghalaya, highlighting his dedication to public service and his role as an effective representative for the region in national politics.
The adjournment of the budget session underscores the significant impact of Syngkon's sudden passing on Meghalaya's political landscape, with lawmakers prioritizing tribute over legislative business during this period of mourning.
