Rebecca V. Suchiang, Meghalaya’s first indigenous tribal woman to serve as Chief Secretary, died on Tuesday after a more than two-year battle with cancer, officials said. Suchiang, who had been undergoing treatment and was unwell for some time, passed away while receiving medical care, prompting widespread grief across the state.
Suchiang made history when she assumed charge as Meghalaya’s Chief Secretary on September 30, 2021. A 1989-batch IAS officer of the Assam–Meghalaya cadre, she was the first Khasi woman and the first indigenous tribal woman to hold the state’s highest bureaucratic post — a milestone hailed across political and administrative circles.
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma expressed deep sorrow and paid tribute to her service, calling her “a highly respected civil servant whose career was marked by dedication to public service.” In his condolence message, Sangma recalled her leadership during difficult periods and praised her decisiveness and the confidence she inspired in colleagues and juniors. “As the first indigenous woman Chief Secretary, Kong Rebecca made bold decisions at tough times and was respected for her leadership among her peers, her guidance to her juniors and her inspiring work ethic,” he said.
Sangma also highlighted Suchiang’s determination during her prolonged illness, noting that she continued to discharge her responsibilities despite serious health challenges. “She fought bravely,” he added, conveying his deepest condolences to her family, friends and loved ones, and saying her contribution to Meghalaya’s administration will remain an important part of the state’s public service history.
Over a long IAS career, Suchiang served in various administrative capacities and was closely associated with the functioning of the state government across multiple departments. Her death marks the loss of a senior administrator who played a significant role in Meghalaya’s governance and public administration.
Original Source: https://www.sentinelassam.com/north-east-india-news/meghalaya-news/meghalayas-1st-tribal-woman-chief-secretary-rebecca-suchiang-passes-away
Category: Meghalaya News
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Publish Date: 2026-08-19 09:18:00
