President of India Condoles the Passing Away of Shri Bk Handique

The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has condoled the passing away ofShri Bijoy Krishna Handique, former Union Minister.

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

Shri Handique served the nation with distinction in different capacities during his public life. He was Member ofParliament 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.

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.

Shri Handique made immense contribution for the welfare and development of the people ofIndia, 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.”

This release issued at0900 hrs.