The Meghalaya government has declared a three-day state mourning in view of the demise of State assembly speaker Donkupar Roy and the funeral will take place on July 31.
Born on November 10, 1954, Roy passed away in New Delhi on Sunday following brief illness.
Ready for a challenge? Click here to take our quiz and show off your knowledge!
According to an official communiqué issued by the Under Secretary General Administration Department on Sunday night, all state government offices, all revenue and magisterial courts and educational institutions in the state will remain closed on the funeral day.
The state funeral to pay last respect to the late Speaker will be held at Sohra, and the burial will be at his native Shella village.
The three-day state mourning will begin from July 29. During the period of state mourning, the National Flag will fly at half mask on government buildings throughout the state, and there will be no official entertainment during this period.
Ready for a challenge? Click here to take our quiz and show off your knowledge!
Condolences pour in from all quarters
Condolences began pouring in from all quarters moment after the news of sad demise of Roy was shared with the nation on Sunday afternoon by the Meghalaya govermnet.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, “Anguished by the demise of Dr. Donkupar Roy, Speaker of the Meghalaya Assembly and former CM of the state. Passionate about Meghalaya’s progress, he served the state with great diligence and helped transform many lives. Condolences to his family and supporters.”
Meghalaya chief minister Conrad K Sangma said that he was deeply saddened by the untimely demise of the Speaker.
“We have lost a leader, a mentor, who had dedicated his life for the service of the people. May Almighty provide strength to the family in this hour of grief. May his soul rest in peace,” Sangma said in his condolence message on Twitter.
Leader of Opposition Mukul Sangma said that the state has lost a leader – rare and simple, down to earth and steadfast in his commitment and dedication to serve the state and the people as a whole and left a great vacuum in the state’s and region’s socio-political spectrum.
“With his passing away, I have lost a personal friend and a leader who was always available as a guide and a counsellor whenever needed in addressing the challenges of diverse issues confronting the state,” former CM Mukul said.
The Leader of Opposition conveyed his deepest condolences and prayed for members of the bereaved family that they receive the much needed solace and strength to overcome this irreparable loss.
Deputy Speaker, Timothy D Shira also expressed deep sadness and condolence on the sudden demise of Roy.
Shira recalled the experience and leadership qualities of the Speaker when he had the opportunity to serve as Deputy Chief Minister in his Ministry and now as his Deputy Speaker.
Assam governor Jagadish Mukhi, Assam chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal and Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio have also condoled the said demise of Roy.