Tura, June 26: The Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) has declared a holiday across all its offices, Civil Courts and Revenue Courts on Friday as a mark of respect following the demise of former Chief Executive Member (CEM) Purno K. Sangma.

In a notification issued by the Council’s General Administration Department on Thursday, the Executive Committee announced that all GHADC establishments under its jurisdiction in Tura would remain closed today in honour of the late leader.

Purno K. Sangma had served as the Chief Executive Member of the GHADC and was also a two-term Member of the District Council (MDC) from the 22 Jengjal Constituency. He was widely regarded as an influential figure in Garo Hills politics and played a significant role in the affairs of the autonomous council.

The notification said the holiday had been declared as a gesture of respect and recognition for his contributions to the Council and the people of Garo Hills.

The order has been communicated to all Executive Members, MDCs, Chairmen of Sub-Committees, Heads of Departments, Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police of the five Garo Hills districts, along with other concerned authorities, for necessary action.

The closure of Council offices and courts is expected to allow officials and the public to pay their respects to the late former CEM.