Pranab Mukherjee condoles passing away of Jorhat MP B.K. Handique

President Mukherjee on Monday condoled the passing away of Former Union Minister, Bijoy Krishna Handique.

In his condolence message to his wife, Swarup Rani Handique, President Mukherjee said, "I am sad to learn about the passing away of Bijoy Krishna Handique, a friend and colleague of long years."

"Handique served the nation with distinction in different capacities during his public life. He was Member of Parliament from the Jorhat Lok Sabha constituency for six consecutive terms from 1991 to 2014. He also served as Member of the Assam Legislative Assembly from 1972 to 1978 and Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) from 1980 to 1986," he said.

"His services to the nation as a Union Minister of State for Defence, Parliamentary Affairs, Mines, Chemicals and Fertilizers and Minister for Mines and North Eastern Region during the tenure of the UPA Government will be always remembered," he added.

President Mukherjee further said that Handique made an immense contribution for the welfare and development of the people of India, especially the State of Assam.

"Please accept my heartfelt condolences and convey the same to the rest of your family members. I pray to the Almighty to give you and other members of the family strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss," he added.