Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind condoled the death of former Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, who passed away on Monday (November 23, 2020) in Guwahati.
Tarun Gogoi, 86, was undergoing treatment at a hospital for post-COVID complications and was being monitored by a team of nine doctors, the GMCH Superintendent Abhijit Sarma told news agency PTI.
PM Modi said, “Shri Tarun Gogoi Ji was a popular leader and a veteran administrator, who had years of political experience in Assam as well as the Centre. Anguished by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family and supporters in this hour of sadness. Om Shanti.”
President Kovind wrote, “Extremely sad to know of the demise of Shri Tarun Gogoi, former Chief Minister of Assam. The country has lost a veteran leader with rich political and administrative experience. His long tenure in office was a period of epochal change in Assam.”
He added, “He will always be remembered for the development of Assam and especially towards his efforts to improve law and order and fighting insurgency in the state. His passing away marks the end of an era. In this hour of grief, condolences to his family, friends and supporters.”
Several other politicians also expressed grief over the death of Gogoi.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah tweeted, “Anguished to learn about the passing away of veteran leader and former Chief Minister of Assam, Shri Tarun Gogoi ji. May almighty give his family the strength to bear this tragic loss. My condolences with his family and followers. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti.
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh wrote, “Anguished by the demise of Assam’s former Chief Minister, Shri Tarun Gogoi ji. Blessed with a warm personality he made notable contribution to Assam’s development and public life. My heartfelt condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti!”
Current Chief Minister of Assam Sarbananda Sonowal said, “I express heartfelt condolences on the demise of former Chief Minister, a tall leader & our most respected Tarun Gogoi da. It’s the end of an era in Assam’s public life. He was so vibrant and full of life until a few days back, couldn’t believe this sad news.”
He added that Gogoi was a people’s leader who had a great contribution to Assam’s political and public sphere.
“Even though we were in Opposition parties, we shared a wonderful rapport and he was a guiding figure. My deepest condolences to his family and well-wishers,” said Sonowal.
Sports Minister and MP from Arunachal Pradesh Kiren Rijiju said, “Very sad & extremely painful to hear about the tragic demise of very loving and senior leader of our country and ex-CM of Assam, Tarun Gogoi Dada. May God bless the noble soul and provide strength to the whole family.”
He added, “I’ll forever cherish the special moments with him.”
