Former Union minister and veteran BJP leader Kabindra Purkayastha passed away on Wednesday. He was 95.
Regarded as the “Patriarch of the BJP in the Northeast”, Purkayastha breathed his last at 11.45 am at Silchar Medical College and Hospital (SMCH).
The BJP leader had been suffering from prolonged illness. He was admitted to the ICU of the SMCH.
Following his death, a large number of supporters and BJP workers gathered outside the hospital.
Political leaders across the country mourned his demise and expressed condolences.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was deeply pained by the passing of Kabindra Purkayastha. “His commitment to serving society and contribution towards Assam’s progress will always be remembered,” Modi said.
The PM also noted the vital role Purkayastha played in strengthening the BJP across the state.
Kabindra Purkayastha was elected as MP from Silchar Lok Sabha seat thrice. He served as a Union Minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led NDA government in 1998.
His pioneering role in strengthening the BJP across the Northeastern region earned him the title of “Patriarch of the BJP in the Northeast.”
Purkayastha is survived by his Rajya Sabha MP son, Kanad Purkayastha.