Former Meghalaya Chief Minister Dr. D. D. Lapang was laid to rest today with full state honours, as political leaders, colleagues, and citizens gathered to pay their final respects to one of the state’s longest-serving and most influential leaders.
The funeral, held in Nongpoh, was attended by senior government officials, legislators from across party lines, and community representatives. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma led the tributes, calling Lapang “a guiding figure whose contributions to Meghalaya’s political and social development will never be forgotten.”
Dr. Lapang, who passed away earlier this week at the age of 91, had a long political career spanning over four decades. He served multiple terms as Chief Minister, first assuming office in 1992, and was a central figure in the Congress party’s presence in the Northeast. Known for his consensus-building style, Lapang was widely respected for bridging divides and working across party boundaries.
Several speakers at the funeral recalled his role in advocating for better infrastructure, education, and employment opportunities in Meghalaya. Former colleagues described him as a “man of the people” who maintained close connections with grassroots communities.
The state government had earlier announced three days of mourning, with flags flying at half-mast across Meghalaya. Schools and offices observed a two-minute silence in his memory.
As the state bid farewell, many mourners reflected on Lapang’s ability to remain relevant across generations. His passing marks the end of an era in Meghalaya politics, leaving behind a legacy of public service and resilience.
