Meghalaya bids a teary adieu to former CM Salseng C Marak

Resubelpara, Aug 17: “Mama, I will never forget you”. These were the final words of Deborah C. Marak as she broke down in tears to bid adieu to her uncle and former Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Salseng C Marak.

Former Chief Minister Salseng C Marak was on Saturday laid to an eternal rest “as a good human”, who remained unfazed in times of victory or defeat during his lifetime. A large number of people gathered at the Resubelpara Mini Stadium in North Garo Hills, including politicians and other dignitaries, to bid adieu to a loving leader and more importantly a good human being.

He died at the Tura Civil Hospital on Friday morning after suffering from old-age related ailments. He was 83 and survived by his children.

Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, Speaker Thomas A Sangma, Dy Speaker Timothy D Shira, and a host of dignitaries and officials of the state paid their last respects to one the most respected political leaders to emerge out of Garo Hills, as he was accorded a gun salute and ceremonial guard of honour as part of the state funeral.

Veteran Congress leader and former Deputy Chief Minster of the state, Deborah Marak, recalled her memories with her uncle, with whom she grew up and stayed with in Shillong. She broke down as she talked about him, tears rolling down.

He was her mentor as she forayed into the field of politics with the Congress party, eventually wining from the Williamnagar constituency. She recalled that Marak was always calm, never had fights with anyone, always imparted knowledge and his experience to the people.

She also expressed gratitude to the government for extending all assistance for completion of the funeral ceremony and for being with the family in this time of grief and sorrow.

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma also recalled (L) Salseng C. Marak’s leadership, wisdom, and popularity, and contributions towards strengthening Meghalaya. “Our State is poorer by the loss of a veteran politician renowned for his closeness to the people, his leadership, wisdom, and compassion. From his beginnings as a teacher and headmaster to his role as the head of government in our state, Shri Marak’s journey has been truly inspirational,” he said.

Talking about his personal interaction with the stalwart, he said, “Soft-spoken, gentle, humble, and wise, he imparted many valuable lessons that significantly contributed to my personal development.”

Meghalaya Speaker Thomas A Sangma remarked that it is “a great loss to all of us”. “He faced challenges with grace, prioritising development. He was a mentor, friend and beacon of hope for countless individuals. He brought stability to the government in Meghalaya. He ensured leaders from all political parties are brought together. I have known him as a child and followed him and always admired his leadership,” he said.

He further reminiscence that in 2008, when he was standing against Marak for the Rajya Sabha seat, he recalled how calm and helpful the former CM was, and guided him instead of getting angry.

Deputy Speaker Timothy D Shira, who defeated Marak twice (in 2008 and 2018) and is the current sitting MLA from Resubelpara, said the late Salseng C. Marak was simple, kind and soft-spoken person, who loved his people.

Marak was elected from Resubelpara in 1972 and held the seat till 2003, for 30 years. He won it again in 2013 but was defeated in 2018; in 2023 he decided not to contest anymore due to his old age and failing health.

“In politics, we are rivals, he was elected in 1973 to Assembly, 1978, I contested as his rivals; we fought many times. I was defeated by him… His late brother and my late father were close friends, but we were political rivals, but when we met each other, we greeted, shook hands, and wished success… there was no enmity between us. It is the way we conducted ourselves. It is a very sad day for me,” he said.

Former Chief Minister, Dr. Mukul Sangma, who worked under Marak in 1993, in his condolence message said Mark’s contribution for the state is “historic”. One of these achievements, Sangma said, was being able to “navigate the course of development and restore peace with the militant outfit A’chik Liberation Matgrik Army”.

“As teacher, he took the lead to overall improve the learning of the school. He had long innings in politics, he was a guide and inspiration to all of us,” he further added.

Several other leaders paid homage to Marak. Congress leader Vincent Pala read out a condolence message from the Congress President, Mallikarjun Kharge. While Congress leader Rahul Gandhi messaged “deeply saddened by the passing away of SC Marak”.

A wreath on behalf of Meghalaya Governor, CH Vijayashankar, was laid by his Aide-De-Camp and a message on behalf of the Governor was read out by the Deputy Commissioner of North Garo Hills. “In his death, the state has lost a respected leader, a great statesman and an able administrator. He will be remembered for his commitment towards the service of the people…”, the Governor’s message read.

Education Minister Rakkam Sangma laid a wreath and paid tribute on behalf of former CM, Dr. DD Lapang. Other Cabinet ministers present during the funeral service were AT Mondal, Marcuise Marak, and several MLAs, Ex MLAs, MDCs and a sea of people to bid their leader the final farewell.

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