Assam Garo freedom fighter Sonaram R. Sangma's 108th death anniversary observed in Boko

The Garo Students Union (GSU) Assam State Zone (ASZ), in collaboration with the Sonaram R. Sangma Memorial Trust Society, commemorated the 108th death anniversary of PA. Sonaram R. Sangma, a revered freedom fighter and the first political leader from the Garo community, at Bakrapur village playground in Dudhnoi on Tuesday, August 27.

The day-long observance began with a solemn prayer service led by Archarst R. Marak, Pastor of BBC, followed by a floral tribute to PA. Sonaram R. Sangma by attendees and distinguished guests. The event featured a memorial meeting where Folding R. Marak, President of GSU, ASZ, delivered the welcome address, and Desal Bimik R. Marak presented a detailed account of Sonaram's life and achievements.

In his address, Desal Bimik R. Marak highlighted Sonaram R. Sangma's pivotal role in advocating for the rights of the Garo people. Born around 1867 in Na'chirongdik, a small hamlet in the Garo Hills, Sonaram's early education at Nishangram Primary School and Tura Mission School laid the foundation for his future activism. His work with the British India Government as a road overseer and vaccinator exposed him to the hardships faced by his community, particularly in the areas of land rights, taxation, and forced labor.

In 1899, Sonaram launched a non-violent movement against the British Government, addressing four key issues: the loss of Garo territory in the Habraghat Pargana, the imposition of a tax known as Nazarana, the conversion of traditional Garo lands into government forests, and the exploitation of Garos as unpaid laborers. His efforts culminated in a mass campaign in 1902, where he led 400 Garo volunteers in a peaceful protest against the Bijni Raj, resulting in his arrest and imprisonment.

Despite facing numerous challenges, Sonaram's resilience remained undeterred. His activism led to significant victories, including the cessation of forest land conversions, the abolition of unpaid labor, and the de-reservation of forest areas. However, his primary demand for the restoration of Garo territory in Habraghat Pargana was not met by the British Government.

Sonaram's legacy as a non-violent revolutionary and a champion of Garo rights continues to inspire the community. His contributions to social and political thought, particularly his advocacy for Pan-Garoism and justice through peaceful means, are remembered with deep respect.

The event was graced by Albinush R. Marak, Chief Executive Member of the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC), Tura, as the Chief Guest, and Frylin R. Marak, Executive Member of the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council (RHAC), as the Guest of Honor. Other notable attendees included Nikman Marak, Deputy CEM of GHADC, Tura, and various dignitaries from the Garo and Rabha communities.

During his address, GSU Central Executive Council President, Tengsak G. Momin, urged the governments of Assam and Meghalaya to recognize and publicize Sonaram R. Sangma's contributions to India's freedom struggle, noting that his non-cooperation movements predated those of Mahatma Gandhi. Frylin R. Marak also shared that RHAC Chief Tankeswar Rabha has pledged to establish a statue in Sonaram's honor, though land for the monument is still being sought.

Chief Guest Albinush R. Marak called on the Garo people to honor Sonaram R. Sangma's legacy, emphasizing the importance of educating future generations about his early resistance against British colonial rule. His life and struggles, Marak stated, are an enduring testament to the Garo community's fight for justice and sovereignty.