Agartala, Dec 27 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Tripura, Manik Saha, expressed deep sorrow on Saturday regarding the sudden passing of Biswa Bandhu Sen, the Speaker of the Tripura Legislative Assembly, describing it as an irreparable loss for the state. He remembered Sen as a remarkable leader and a significant figure whose contributions to the state's progress were invaluable.

Sen, who had served four terms as an MLA, passed away at a private medical facility in Bengaluru on Friday after a prolonged treatment that lasted over four-and-a-half months. His cremation is scheduled to take place with full state honors in his native Dharmanagar on Sunday.

On Saturday, his remains were transported from Bengaluru to Agartala, where they were taken to the premises of the Tripura Legislative Assembly at the Capital Complex. There, leaders and citizens from various sectors came to pay their final tributes.

During a moment of remembrance, Chief Minister Saha reflected on his long-standing relationship with Sen, stating that the Speaker will be fondly remembered for his wisdom, dedication, and leadership.

Providing further details about Sen’s unexpected health crisis, Saha shared that on the morning of August 8, Sen had visited him at his official residence in Agartala.

“He would often stop by for a cup of tea whenever he was in Agartala, and I would check on his health,” Saha recounted.

Later that day, Sen lost consciousness at Agartala railway station while en route to his hometown of Dharmanagar. He was swiftly taken to Tripura Medical College Hospital.

“Doctors diagnosed him with a blood clot in the brain, necessitating immediate surgery,” he explained.

Following the surgery, Sen was moved to a different hospital via a green corridor, where the procedure was successfully completed to remove the clot.

He was kept there for two days before being airlifted to a Bengaluru facility for advanced treatment, in accordance with his family's wishes.

“The manner in which he battled his health issues is truly commendable. I was in touch with his children nearly every day. However, the tragic news of his passing on Friday has left a significant void for me and the people of Tripura,” Saha lamented.

The Chief Minister highlighted that during his tenure as Speaker, Sen performed his responsibilities with the utmost commitment and accountability.

“He was a wise and thoughtful individual, deeply engaged in literature, culture, and drama. His involvement in Jatrapala (traditional open-air opera) and his poetry also showcased his artistic side,” Saha added.

He reminisced about knowing Sen since their college days at MBB College in 1971, calling him a cherished friend.

“I will always remember his adept handling of the Legislative Assembly sessions,” he stated.

Extending his condolences, the Chief Minister prayed for the departed soul’s peace and offered his sympathies to the grieving family, wishing them the resilience to cope with this profound loss.