The political landscape of Assam mourns the loss of a stalwart as veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former Member of Parliament, Kabindra Purkayastha, passed away on Monday. He was 94 years old.
A Life Dedicated to Public Service
Kabindra Purkayastha breathed his last at a private hospital in Guwahati, where he was undergoing treatment for age-related ailments. His long and distinguished career in public service made him a respected figure across party lines in the northeastern state.
Purkayastha served as a member of the Lok Sabha, representing the Silchar constituency, not once but twice. His first term ran from 1991 to 1996, and he was re-elected to serve again from 1999 to 2004. During his tenure in India's lower house of Parliament, he was known for his active participation and advocacy for the development of Assam.
Political Journey and Legacy
His political journey was deeply intertwined with the BJP's growth in Assam. Purkayastha was a founding member of the party's state unit and played a pivotal role in strengthening its presence in the region. His commitment to the party's ideology and his connect with the people earned him the status of a senior statesman within the BJP ranks.
Beyond his parliamentary duties, he held significant organizational positions. He was the president of the BJP's Assam unit from 2002 to 2006, a period that saw the party consolidate its base in the state. His leadership was instrumental in shaping the party's strategy and outreach.
The news of his demise has triggered an outpouring of grief and condolences. Senior leaders, colleagues, and political adversaries have all expressed their sorrow, highlighting his dignified conduct and contribution to Assam's polity.
Condolences Pour In From Across the Spectrum
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma led the tributes, expressing his profound sadness. In a post on social media platform X, Sarma described Purkayastha as a "veteran politician" and a "fatherly figure." He acknowledged the former MP's immense contribution to the state's political development and extended his deepest sympathies to the bereaved family and supporters.
The BJP's state unit also issued a heartfelt statement, mourning the loss of one of its founding pillars in Assam. The party flag was flown at half-mast at the state headquarters in Guwahati as a mark of respect for the departed leader.
Kabindra Purkayastha's passing marks the end of an era in Assam's political history. He witnessed and participated in the dramatic evolution of the state's politics over several decades. His life serves as a testament to a generation of leaders who were deeply rooted in their constituencies and committed to party-building from the ground up.
He is survived by his family, including his son, who continues to be active in public life. The final rites are expected to be performed with full state honours, reflecting the stature and respect he commanded. As Assam bids farewell to this veteran leader, his legacy of service and his role in the rise of the BJP in the northeast will be remembered for years to come.
