Tsewang Rigzin
LEH, June 1: Six years after the passing of former Union Minister P. Namgyal, people from across Ladakh, cutting across religious and political affiliations, gathered today at the P. Namgyal Memorial Park to pay tribute to the veteran leader on his sixth death anniversary. The occasion was marked by the consecration of a memorial stupa in his honour, attended by religious leaders, public representatives, family members and admirers from different parts of Ladakh.
The memorial ceremony served as a tribute to one of Ladakh’s most respected political leaders, remembered for his integrity, humility and lifelong commitment to public service. As P. Namgyal passed away during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, restrictions at the time prevented the people of Ladakh from according him a large public farewell. The consecration of the memorial stupa was therefore seen as a collective expression of gratitude and remembrance.
Phuntsog Namgyal, fondly remembered as ‘P. Namgyal’, was one of the tallest and most respected leaders Ladakh produced in the post-Independence era. Known for his honesty, integrity, simplicity, secular outlook and fearless leadership, P. Namgyal remained a lifelong Congressman and became the first and only Union Minister from Ladakh.
P. Namgyal’s contributions to Ladakh’s development spanned more than five decades. He represented Ladakh Parliamentary Constituency three times in the 7th, 8th and 11th Lok Sabha and also served three terms as a Member of the Legislative Council in the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.
A veteran Congress leader, P. Namgyal served as Union Deputy Minister for Surface Transport and Parliamentary Affairs and later as Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Petrochemicals and Parliamentary Affairs under the prime ministership of late Rajiv Gandhi from 1988 to 1989. He played a crucial role in bringing Ladakh’s concerns and aspirations to the national stage.
Widely regarded as a principled leader with unimpeachable integrity, P. Namgyal earned admiration across political lines. His contribution, integrity and honesty continue to be praised by political leaders across Ladakh irrespective of party affiliation.
A strong advocate of Ladakh’s aspirations, P. Namgyal consistently championed the demand for Union Territory status and later supported the idea of a Union Territory with Legislature for Ladakh. His vision and public service continue to inspire generations.
A documentary film on the life and legacy of P. Namgyal was also screened during the programme.
Speakers at today’s ceremony remembered him as a leader whose life was defined by honesty, courage and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of Ladakh. They said the memorial stupa would stand as a lasting symbol of his legacy and an inspiration for future generations.
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