Members of the Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People (FKJGP) on Saturday reportedly closed several banks and private company offices in different parts of Shillong, including Nongmengsong, Pynthor, Nongthymmai, Police Bazar and Upper Shillong, as a mark of respect during the funeral of Shillong Lok Sabha MP Ricky Andrew J Syngkon. The FKJGP members moved across various localities requesting banks and private establishments to suspend operations, stating that some institutions had not observed closure on the day of the funeral rites of the late parliamentarian, who passed away on Thursday following a massive heart attack.
Earlier, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma had announced that the State Government would declare a holiday on Saturday in all districts falling under the Shillong Parliamentary Constituency to enable people to attend the funeral. The Chief Minister had stated that although Saturday had earlier been scheduled as a working day due to compensatory arrangements, the government considered it appropriate to declare a holiday as a mark of respect.The funeral of the Shillong Parliamentary constituency MP drew large numbers of mourners from across the state, reflecting the widespread grief over his sudden demise.