SHILLONG: The entire Khasi-Jaintia Hills fell into a solemn silence of grief as people bid adieu to Shillong MP Late Dr Ricky Andrew J Syngkon on Saturday.
Thousands of people flocked to Nongsder, Ri-Bhoi District, to pay their final respects to this capable leader—a man who lived a life of humility before both God and man.
On the day of his funeral, the state witnessed more than just the passing of an MP; it witnessed the departure of a soul who proved that politics can be clean, humble, and rooted in love for one’s heritage.
Dr. Ricky demonstrated that power is not a tool for self-elevation, but a path to serve with sincerity and grace.
Dr. Ricky did not enter public service without a foundation of wisdom. His relationship with North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) spanned over 30 years —from his days as a student to his tenure as an Assistant Professor. This academic journey formed the bedrock of his life. He taught more than just Commerce or Economics; he taught people how to be responsible citizens of society.
His victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha election was not merely a win for the VPP party; it was a sign of a public awakening—of a people yearning for clean governance. Winning the Shillong Parliamentary seat by a massive margin, his victory reflected the deep love and trust the public placed in him to bring about change.
Despite this historic win in his first-ever parliamentary contest, Dr Ricky remained a man who was easy to talk to, gentle, and a living example that power should never erode one’s humanity.
VPP President Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit remembers Dr. Ricky as the “strongest pillar” of the VPP—the man who encouraged him not to retreat from politics back in 2018.
Dr. Ricky lived a life characterized by the Khasi term “shisur-shidur” (consistency of character). This is a profound concept—meaning he was the same person at home as he was in his village, and the same person in Delhi. His humility was not superficial; it was a truth that shone from within his soul.
He left a great lesson for fellow leaders: “Let us leave the party aside; let us build the State.” For him, the State stood at the forefront, integrity stood at the center, and the party stood behind.
“First improve your own life, then improve your family, then improve society and the State”: these were the words of Dr Ricky.
The loss the state feels today is incomparable, as it mourns a leader who still had many goals left to achieve. The brief adjournment of the Budget Session stands as a mark of respect for a leader of his stature.
As his mortal remains were laid to rest at the cemetery of the Sumer Presbyterian Church, his name will live on in the halls of NEHU, in his speeches in Parliament, and most importantly, in the hearts of the people who loved him.
He lived as a Scholar, served as a philosopher and Departed as a man of the people.
