New Delhi, Feb 20 (NationPress) Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed profound sorrow on Friday regarding the passing of Dr. Ricky AJ Syngkon, the Lok Sabha Member from Shillong. He fondly recalled him as a dedicated public servant who relentlessly championed the welfare of the community.

In a message on the social media platform X, Rahul conveyed his sadness over Dr. Syngkon's death and offered his heartfelt condolences to the grieving family, friends, and supporters.

"I am deeply saddened by the loss of Dr. Ricky AJ Syngkon, the Lok Sabha MP from Shillong, Meghalaya. His unwavering dedication to public service and the residents of Meghalaya will be honored with great respect. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and supporters during this difficult time," the Congress leader stated.

Dr. Syngkon, a member of the Voice of the People Party (VPP), tragically passed away on Thursday evening after suddenly falling ill while playing football, which sent shockwaves throughout Meghalaya's political community. He had gone to engage in a football match with friends that evening at a local field in Mawlai Mawiong.

During the game, he reportedly collapsed, raising immediate alarm among his peers. His friends quickly transported him to the nearby Mawiong Community Health Centre for urgent medical aid.

Unfortunately, due to the lack of a doctor at that time, he was redirected to a more advanced medical facility. He was subsequently moved to Dr. H. Gordon Roberts Hospital in Jaiaw for intensive care.

Despite the medical team’s best efforts, Dr. Syngkon did not survive long after admission and was pronounced dead at approximately 8:42 p.m. This shocking news left supporters, colleagues, and the local populace in a state of disbelief.

In the wake of his passing, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, VPP president Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit, along with numerous legislators and senior political figures, hurried to the hospital to pay their respects and offer comfort to the family.

As a first-time Member of Parliament, Dr. Syngkon had made a significant impact after winning a landslide victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Running on a VPP ticket, he triumphed over three-time Congress MP Vincent H. Pala by a remarkable margin of over 3.7 lakh votes, marking a pivotal change in Meghalaya’s political landscape.

Recognized for his grassroots engagement and advocacy in matters of indigenous rights, governance, and transparency, Dr. Syngkon's untimely passing has left a significant void in both state and national politics, particularly for the VPP. Leaders from various parties have expressed their condolences, remembering him as a devoted public representative with a bright political future.

The state government is anticipated to release further information regarding his last rites and official condolence arrangements.