Shillong, Sept 15: Meghalaya bid a solemn farewell to former Chief Minister Dr. Donwa Dethwel Lapang, who was laid to rest today with full state honours.

The official state tribute was held at Madan Student Jaiaw, where Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, cabinet ministers, and senior officials joined members of Dr. Lapang’s family to pay their final respects.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Khun Rangbah B. Blah expressed heartfelt gratitude to the state government and the people of Meghalaya for honouring Dr. Lapang’s memory. “He was a statesman whose life’s work was dedicated to the service of Meghalaya,” Blah said.

Several prominent leaders were present at the ceremony. Former Chief Minister Dr. Mukul Sangma remembered Dr. Lapang as “a role model whose decades-long public service began with his leadership of the Congress Legislature Party in 1988.”

Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong described Dr. Lapang as a visionary statesman who made lasting contributions to education, welfare institutions, and the overall development of Meghalaya since statehood in 1972.

Following the official homage, a ceremonial procession escorted by police made its way to Lum Jingtep Jaiaw Weiking, Balang Jaiaw, where Dr. Lapang was laid to rest. Floral tributes were offered by leaders, colleagues, and citizens, marking a respectful conclusion to the funeral rites.

Tributes from across the political spectrum and the public celebrated Dr. Lapang’s lifelong service and his enduring legacy as a builder of modern Meghalaya.