In a shocking turn of events, Shillong’s Lok Sabha MP Dr. Ricky A.J. Singkon passed away suddenly on Thursday evening, leaving the political landscape of Meghalaya in mourning. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed profound grief over the loss, taking to social media platform X to pay tribute to the dedicated public servant.
PM Modi posted, ‘Deeply saddened by the passing away of Shillong MP Dr. Ricky A.J. Singkon. His dedicated service to the people of Meghalaya will always be remembered. My thoughts are with his family, friends and supporters in this hour of grief. Om Shanti.’ The heartfelt message underscored Singkon’s tireless efforts for his constituents.
The 42-year-old MP, representing the Voice of the People Party (VPP), collapsed while playing football in Shillong. Friends rushed him to the Mawiong Community Health Centre, but with no doctors available, he was referred to a higher facility. He was later admitted to Dr. H. Gordon Roberts Hospital in Jaiaw for advanced care.
Despite the medical team’s best efforts, Singkon was declared dead at 8:42 PM, mere hours after admission. The news sent shockwaves through Meghalaya, with Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, Deputy CM Preston Tinsong, VPP chief Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit, and numerous leaders rushing to the hospital to console the family.
Singkon had made history in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, defeating three-time Congress MP Vincent H. Pala by over 3.7 lakh votes. This landslide victory marked a seismic shift in Meghalaya’s politics, propelling the young doctor-turned-politician to national prominence.
Born into a modest family, Singkon was a qualified medical practitioner before entering politics. His sudden demise has not only orphaned his family but also deprived Meghalaya of a dynamic voice in Parliament. Tributes continue to pour in, highlighting his commitment to grassroots development and anti-corruption stance that resonated with voters.
As Meghalaya grapples with this irreplaceable loss, the legacy of Dr. Ricky Singkon’s brief but impactful political journey will inspire future generations. The state flag flies at half-mast, and funeral arrangements are underway amid widespread grief.