President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Assam chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Union ministers, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and others have condoled the demise of former Assam chief minister Tarun Gogoi.

Tarun Gogoi passed away at Gauhati Medical College Hospital (GMCH) at 5.34 pm on Monday. He was 86.

“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,” President Kovind said in his condolence message.

Also read: Former Assam chief minister Tarun Gogoi passes away at 86

“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,” he added.

Prime Minister Modi in his condolence message tweeted: “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.”

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi tweeted: “Shri Tarun Gogoi was a true Congress leader. He devoted his life to bringing all the people and communities of Assam together. For me, he was a great and wise teacher. I loved and respected him deeply. I will miss him. My love and condolences to Gaurav & the family.”

Assam Governor Prof Jagdish Mukhi tweeted: “I am deeply hurt by the death of veteran politician and former Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi who served the state as the Chief Minister for three consecutive terms with deep commitment.”

Assam chief minister Sonowal also deeply mourned the demise of former chief minister Gogoi.

In a statement, chief minister Sonowal said, “I am deeply saddened by the demise of former Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi. With his death, the State has lost an experienced, capable and efficient political leader.”

“The people of Assam will always remember his committed service and contributions to the State. His sense of humour, amiable and outspoken nature attracted everyone. He set high ethical values in the field of politics with his simple life-style and contributed profusely in strengthening democratic values in the country.”

Chief minister Sonowal also prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul and conveyed his deep sympathy to the bereaved family members.

Union DoNER Minister Dr Jitendra Singh in his condolence message said:  “Extremely saddened by demise of veteran leader & former CM Assam Sh #TarunGogoi. I had privilege of sharing a very pleasant relationship with him. In matters of Northeast, his advice was always solicited. My sincere condolences to his family, particularly his son @GauravGogoiAsm.”