SHILLONG: Meghalaya is in deep mourning following the sudden and tragic demise of Shillong Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) Dr Ricky A. J. Syngkon, who passed away late Thursday evening after collapsing during a friendly football match.
The incident occurred at Ratson Arena, where Dr. Syngkon had joined a match with Pastors and Church Elders. According to the field manager, Ribor Nongrum, the MP arrived at the venue around 6:15 PM and appeared cheerful and energetic.
Before kickoff, he reportedly shared his excitement about returning to the pitch, mentioning that he had not played for nearly two months due to his busy schedule.
Timeline of Events
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6:15 PM: Dr. Syngkon arrives at Ratson Arena.
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6:20 PM – 6:35 PM: He plays the first 15 minutes of the match before taking a short rest.
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6:40 PM: He returns to the field for the second half.
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6:56 PM: Just minutes before the final whistle, he suddenly collapses and loses consciousness.
Fellow players and bystanders immediately rushed to assist him. Owing to a delay in the arrival of an ambulance, he was transported in a private vehicle to the Mawiong Community Health Centre (CHC).
Medical personnel at Mawiong attempted to stabilise him before referring him to Dr H Gordon Roberts’ Hospital in Jaiaw for advanced treatment. Despite sustained efforts by the medical team, Dr. Syngkon was pronounced dead at 8:42 PM on Thursday night.
The sudden loss of the parliamentarian has sent shockwaves across Meghalaya and the wider Northeast region. Tributes have poured in from political colleagues, community leaders, and constituents who remembered him as a dedicated public servant and passionate sports enthusiast.
“He was full of life and happy to be back on the field. It is hard to believe he is gone so suddenly,” said Ribor Nongrum.
Dr. Syngkon’s final rites and funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at his residence in Nongsder, Ri Bhoi district, where he will be laid to rest with full honours.
