Saidul Khan
I count it as one of the greatest privileges of my journalistic career that I was able to closely cover the public life of Purno Agitok Sangma for over a decade.
I began my career in journalism in 2005, still young, still learning the craft, still searching for stories that would test my courage and conviction. In those formative years, I found myself covering his election rallies, public meetings, and press interactions. I interviewed him on several occasions, often going in prepared with what I believed were tough, hard-hitting questions. I always thought I would corner him on a difficult issue.
But every time, he had an answer, answers backed with facts. His knowledge and understanding of issues were not superficial; they came from experience and study.As a journalist, that left a lasting impression on me. As a young man, it shaped my understanding.
Long before I became a reporter, I had already seen him from a distance. I was in Class IX when he served as the Speaker of the Lok Sabha. For a student in Tura, that was a matter of immense pride to know that someone from our soil was presiding over the highest democratic forum of the country. He would often visit Don Bosco School, where I was studying then. I still remember the excitement his presence generated among us students. Yet, what stood out was not the aura of power, but his simplicity.
He spoke to students not as a dignitary, but as someone who understood dreams and aspirations. His life story from humble beginnings in the Garo Hills to the Speaker’s Chair speaks about his perseverance and determination. For many of us, he was living proof that geography does not limit destiny.
Over the years, as I interacted with him more closely, I saw the same qualities reflected consistently, humility, wit, firmness in decisions, and a deep respect for democratic values. Even when confronted with criticism, he remained composed. That rare combination of strength and civility is something I deeply admired.
Today, he is no longer amidst us. There are moments when I deeply miss his words, his perspective, and the reassuring clarity with which he would dissect complex issues. It is rare to find someone with that kind of wisdom and grounded knowledge. Often, I wish he were still here, to guide, to advise, to inspire.
It gives me immense satisfaction that I have been able to collect some of my fond memories and pen them down. Documenting his life has become more than a professional exercise; it has become a personal commitment. I have been working steadily to gather materials, accounts, and reflections so that future generations may understand not just the public figure, but the man behind the office. The work continues.
On his 10th death anniversary, we inaugurated a museum at the P.A. Sangma Sports Complex in Tura, dedicated to showcasing his life and legacy. It stands not merely as a structure of memorabilia, but as a space of inspiration, especially for students and young minds. I would encourage the general public, and particularly students, to visit and learn about his journey.
Legacies are not preserved only in buildings or photographs. They live on in values, in inspiration, and in the quiet resolve of those who were touched by a life well lived. For me, Purno Agitok Sangma will always remain more than a political leader I covered. He will remain a guiding influence, a reminder that public life can be dignified, that leadership can be humane, and that wisdom, when combined with humility, leaves an imprint that time cannot erase.
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