Pall of gloom descends as Assam loses one of its charismatic, visionary leader, Tarun Gogoi

Guwahati: A pall of gloom descended as soon as the news of the demise of former Chief Minister of Assam Tarun Gogoi was announced by Assam Health Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma.

"Former CM Tarun Gogoi passed away at 5.34 pm," announced Sarma. "The ECG done at 5.34 pm showed that his heart has stopped. After that, GMCH Superintendent Dr Abhijit Sarma officially made the announcement," Assam Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said.

The body of the veteran leader will be taken to his official residence in Dispur from GMCH. Due to the ill health of Gogoi's wife Dolly Gogoi, it is likely that the funeral will be held in Guwahati, Sarma said.

The body will be further taken to Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra, Guwahati for the public to pay their homage.

The 86-year-old Gogoi was hospitalised for almost two months since August 25 after testing positive for the coronavirus. However, Gogoi was discharged on October 25 after testing negative. However, a team of doctors were deputed at Gogoi's official residence as he was suffering from post-COVID complications.

The veteran leader was readmitted to GMCH on November 2 after he complained of breathing problems. However, he was later discharged.

On November 18, Gogoi was rushed back to the hospital. His health deteriorated as he had a multi-organ failure. Prayer meetings were held across the state for his speedy recovery. Several prominent figures of Assam visited Gogoi at GMCH on Monday.

Gogoi was the longest-serving CM of Assam. He held the office of Chief Minister from 2001-2016. A fatherly figure to many politicians, Gogoi has always been loved and admired by people across party lines.

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