Pa Togan Nengminza Sangma

The Garo Hills and Its People

The Garo Hills, now part of Meghalaya, is predominantly inhabited by the Garos, belonging to the Tibeto-Burman race. The Garos proudly call themselves the Achiks, and their land as Achikland. From time immemorial, they lived as an independent tribe, maintaining their traditions, identity, and sovereignty amidst the hills.

Early Life of Pa Togan Sangma

Pa Togan Nengminza Sangma was born at Samanda village in present-day East Garo Hills District. He grew up in a time of great upheaval, as the British had already occupied a major portion of the Garo Hills following the Garo Hills District Act of 1869. Yet, more than sixty villages in the interior region, including Samanda and Dalbot-Kalkagre led by Togan and his co-leader Gilsang Dalbot Sangma, remained fiercely independent.

The Spark of Resistance

Togan, Gilsang, and other independent Nokmas (village chiefs) refused to submit to British authority. They retaliated against villages that accepted colonial rule. Tensions escalated in 1871 when a Khalasi (worker) from a British survey party led by Major Godwin Austen was killed by the Garos. The British, taking this as an open challenge, decided to annex the remaining Garo villages. Determined to defend their freedom, Togan and his fellow leaders vowed to resist—even at the cost of their lives.

The Battle of Chisobibra

The defining moment of Pa Togan Sangma’s heroism came during the Battle of Chisobibra in December 1872. The Garo warriors, though ill-equipped compared to the British forces, charged fearlessly into battle. Showing remarkable ingenuity, Togan devised large shields made from plantain stems to protect his men from bullets. Despite this tactical brilliance, the Garos were eventually overpowered, and Togan fell in battle, displaying unmatched valor and sacrifice.

Immortal Legacy

Pa Togan Sangma’s name is immortalized at the Martyrs’ Column in Shillong, where he stands alongside other freedom fighters of Meghalaya such as U Tirot Sing and U Kiang Nongbah. His bravery continues to inspire generations as a symbol of resistance and the pride of the Garo people.

Honours and Recognition

• The Government of Meghalaya instituted the Pa Togan Sangma State Awards to honor individuals for outstanding social service.
• 12th December, his death anniversary, is observed as a State Holiday every year to commemorate his sacrifice.
• The Department of Posts pays tribute by issuing a Commemorative Postage Stamp, honoring him as the great tribal leader who used guerrilla tactics and fought valiantly against colonial forces.