Shillong, February 19 (IANS). Voice of the People Party (VPP) Shillong MP Ricky AJ Singkon passed away after suddenly falling ill while playing football on Thursday evening, triggering widespread grief in the political circles of Meghalaya.
According to sources, Singkon had gone to play football with friends at a playground in Mawlai Mawiong on Thursday evening.
During the match, he collapsed on the field, prompting bystanders to immediately rush him to the nearby Mawiong Community Health Center (CHC) for emergency medical aid.
However, according to sources, he was referred to a higher center due to non-availability of a doctor in the hospital at that time.
He was later admitted to Dr. H. Gordon Roberts Hospital in Jioia for advanced treatment. Hospital sources said that despite the efforts of the medical team, Syangkon could not be saved.
He was declared dead at around 8:42 pm, leaving his supporters, colleagues and residents of the state stunned by his sudden loss.
As soon as the news of his demise was received, Deputy Chief Minister Preston Tinsong, VPP President Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit, along with several MLAs, senior political leaders and party workers rushed to the hospital to pay tribute and console the family.
Singkon, a first-time MP, had carved a niche for himself as a prominent political figure after securing a landslide victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Contesting the elections on a VPP ticket, he defeated three-time Congress MP Vincent H. Pala by a huge margin of over 37 lakh votes, bringing about a significant change in the political landscape of Meghalaya.
The sudden demise of Singcon, known for its grassroots engagement and advocacy for tribal rights, governance and transparency, has left a void in state and national politics, especially within the VPP.
Leaders of all parties expressed deep condolences on his demise and remembered him as a dedicated public representative.
–IANS
ms/
