Shillong, June 12: The Shillong Press Club expresses its profound pain and angst at the unfortunate passing away of two of its stellar members – Bah Readington Marweiñ and Bah Sameer Sohliya on June 10 and 12 respectively.
Bah Marweiñ was not only a pioneering force in the establishment of vernacular press in the state, but was also a constant patron of upgradation of technology and knowledge in making information dissemination an integral part of our modern system.
Very keen to be ever updated, he never hesitated to ensure that his publication group only grew from pillar to strength with the advent of time. So much so, that from placing Mawphor at the top echelons of print media in the state, he went on to successfully publish the new up and coming English daily Highland Post and then took his interest in promoting vernacular journalism a notch higher by launching its first-ever Garo daily titled Kosi Songbad on March 30 this year.
His departure leaves an immense void difficult to fill, and journalism, especially the vernacular press has lost an irreplaceable Patron beyond compare. Bah Marweiñ’s humility, kindness and lavish generosity to the media fraternity and to society as a whole cutting across caste, creed or faith will long be remembered and appreciated from the heart.
Senior Executive Committee member of SPC ‘Bhaijan’ Sameer Sohliya, as he will always be fondly known needs no introduction. Like a senior colleague described him, he was a courageous journalist, always relentless in his quest for the truth however uncomfortable or dangerous it maybe. His knack for gathering information on the very delicate and sensitive matters through the most unexpected sources and quarters will always be remembered.
His unique ability to blend in any situation and gathering from the local meeting point of Mawkyrwat market to the hallowed halls of the Raj Bhavan, Sameer would always be welcomed. His elaborate and in-depth knowledge of the role and function of those donning the uniform to serve the nation is beyond doubt unquestionable.
In fact, Sameer Sohliya is the only journalist from the State to have completed a full course as a defense correspondent accredited to the Union Ministry of Defense. Never one to say no to a plead for help in any aspect, Sameer will always be the first one to reach out, most often forgetting about his own needs. His generosity went beyond humans for he will be sorely missed by scores of strays that he would always lovingly feed daily outside SPC, come rain or high water.
Bhaijan’s sudden exit from this world has descended upon SPC like a pall of gloom difficult to fathom and reconcile. His genuine warmth and ever ready humour, couple with vast knowledge of our indigenous way of life and practices will never be forgotten even as his professionalism towards his duty will be embedded in our hearts forever and yes! Unlikely to be emulated.
The Shillong Press Club once again with deep regret and sorrow conveys its sincerest condolences to both the bereaved family members of (L) Bah RM Marweiñ and (L) Bah Sameer Sohliya. May God Almighty grant you solace during these your darkest moments and grant both the precious souls, Everlasting Rest.
