The three-day session of the present assembly began on Tuesday under strict adherence to COVID-19 protocols issued by the assembly secretariat to be followed by members and officials during the session.
Chief minister Zoramthanga made obituary references on the demise of Mukherjee and five other members, including two former assembly speakers Hiphei and Rokamlova. The five members died between March and July. The chief minister recalled the great services rendered by them as politicians.
Paying rich tribute to Mukherjee, who died of complicated ailments at the Army Research and Referral hospital in New Delhi on Monday, Zoramthanga said his demise was a great loss for the whole nation. The veteran leader and great parliamentarian, who left active politics after he became the President of India in 2012, steadfastly remained as a great leader throughout his life, he said.
Earlier, Zoramthanga had also condoled the former president. “Saddened by the demise of former president of Indian Shri. Pranab Mukherjee. My heartfelt condolences and sympathy to his family and loved ones. He will be remembered,” he tweeted.
Condoling the five members, Zoramthanga also recalled their great contributions and hailed them as great leaders. “This house pays deep condolences to the departed leaders, including Mukherjee and sympathies to their families,” he said.
Opposition leader Lalduhoma and six other members, including Minister R. Lalzirliana and Congress Legislature Party (CPL) leader Zodintluanga Ralte also made condolence speeches to the departed leaders.
A minute silence was observed by all members to pay respect to the leaders. The session will continue till Thursday.
~EastMojo