Shillong (Meghalaya), Sep 14: The Government of Meghalaya has declared a three-day state mourning from September 13 to 15 in respect of the passing away of former Chief Minister Dr. Donwa Dethwelson Lapang. A state funeral will be held on September 15 at 1 pm at Students’ Field, Jaiaw, followed by burial at Jaiaw Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Weiking.
Dr. Lapang, fondly known as “Maheh,” passed away on September 12 at Bethany Hospital, Shillong, at the age of 96. During the mourning period, the National Flag will be flown at half-mast at all government establishments across the state, and there will be no official entertainment.
The veteran leader served as Chief Minister of Meghalaya four times and was a central figure in the state’s political landscape for decades. His calm and conciliatory approach earned him respect across party lines. Chief Minister Conrad Sangma condoled Dr. Lapang’s passing, describing him as a “guiding light for Meghalaya” and a true servant of the people.
The state funeral proceedings will be live streamed through the official social media handles of the Directorate of Information and Public Relations on Facebook and YouTube, and the ABC Digest YouTube Channel, allowing the public to pay their last respects.
