New Delhi/Guwahati, Jan 7 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed profound grief on Wednesday regarding the demise of Kabindra Purkayastha, a notable former Union Minister and long-standing leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Assam. He remembered Purkayastha as a dedicated public servant who made significant contributions to both the political and social landscape of Assam.

In a statement shared on the social media platform X, the Prime Minister highlighted Purkayastha's unwavering commitment to societal service and his influential role in Assam's development. Modi emphasized that the veteran leader's efforts in fortifying the BJP throughout the state were invaluable, stemming from years of organizational dedication and public involvement.

"My thoughts are with his family and supporters during this sorrowful time. Om Shanti," PM Modi expressed, extending heartfelt condolences to the grieving family and supporters.

The news of Purkayastha's passing has elicited expressions of sorrow from various political leaders, many of whom reflected on his pivotal role in advancing the BJP's influence in Assam and the broader Northeast region.

At the age of 95, Purkayastha passed away on Wednesday at Silchar Medical College and Hospital after a lengthy illness.

Assam’s Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, also shared a message of condolence, stating that Purkayastha's absence has created an irreplaceable void. Sarma reminisced about his long-standing relationship with the distinguished leader, emphasizing the invaluable guidance and lessons he acquired from him.

Kabindra Purkayastha's public journey began with his involvement in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in 1951, where he took on numerous pivotal roles within the organization. He significantly helped disseminate the RSS ideology across the Northeast, especially in Assam and the Barak Valley.

Upon the establishment of the BJP in 1980, Purkayastha became one of its founding members and served as a crucial organizational figure during its early years in the state.

Regarded as the patriarch of the BJP in Assam, he was essential in establishing the party’s grassroots foundation and reinforcing its regional presence over the decades.

Purkayastha made his first appearance in national politics in 1991 when he was elected to the Lok Sabha from the Silchar constituency in Assam. He retained his seat in 1998, solidifying his status as a key leader from the Barak Valley.

Known for his eloquent advocacy for regional matters, he consistently addressed issues affecting Assam and the Northeast in Parliament.

In the 2009 general elections, Purkayastha achieved a remarkable victory from Silchar by defeating notable opponents, including senior Congress figure Santosh Mohan Dev and AUDF leader Badruddin Ajmal.

However, during the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, he faced defeat against Congress candidate Sushmita Dev, daughter of Santosh Mohan Dev, despite a nationwide trend favoring the BJP.

Apart from electoral politics, Purkayastha was deeply involved in social and organizational endeavors. His lifelong commitment to public service and societal contributions earned him an honorary doctorate in September 2024.

Respected across political affiliations for his integrity, ideological commitment, and organizational skills, Kabindra Purkayastha leaves behind a lasting legacy as a fundamental architect of the BJP’s development in Assam and the Northeast.

Purkayastha's reputation was built on his simplicity, ethical values, and steadfast dedication to the principle of “sewa bhav”. Beyond his political roles, he actively advocated for displaced Hindu refugees, marginalized communities, and the overall developmental aspirations of Assam, earning him widespread respect across party lines.