GUWAHATI, Aug 23 - Governor Professor Jagdish Mukhi today condoled the death of veteran journalist and writer Kuldip Nayar.
In a statement issued here, the Governor said, �Saddened to learn the passing away of Kuldip Nayar, a frank and fearless journalist and intellectual giant. His death is a great loss to the nation.�
During his long career spanning over many decades, Nayar scripted several books, which hold immense importance for past, present and future generations. His contributions will always be remembered, Prof Mukhi said.
�I pray to the Almighty for eternal peace of the departed soul,� he added.
Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal also condoled the demise of veteran journalist, author and human rights activist Kuldip Nayar.
In his condolence message, Chief Minister Sonowal said, �Late Nayar was widely respected for his newspaper columns and his contributions to the field of journalism in the country was invaluable. His writings enlightened the readers on many pertinent issues of our times. His books are great sources to knowledge about the political and social evolution of the country. Moreover, as a nominated member of the Rajya Sabha and High Commissioner of India to United Kingdom, he made notable services to the nation.�
The All Assam Students' Union (AASU) also condoled the death. In its message, the student body said Nayar was a well-wisher of Assam and his death is a great loss to the State along with the rest of the country.
Tomorrow, AASU would organise a Statewide programme to pay homage to the eminent writer-journalist.
�Kuldip Nayar, through his writings and personal endeavors, supported the Assam movement throughout. Realizing the objectives and importance of this movement, he also helped in building public opinion in support of this movement. Even after signing of the Assam Accord, he was associated with the cause, and played active role in the national level discussions over the issue in New Delhi.
He always extended his valuable advice to the students' union over several matters concerning the problems of Assam,� said AASU president Dipanka Kumar Nath and general secretary Lurinjyoti Gogoi.
After becoming a Rajya Sabha member, Nayar attended the Barpeta convention of the AASU and extended his help in setting up educational centres across the State through his MP fund. For the uplift of vernacular medium school, he also gave Rs 10 lakh from his MP fund for constructing classrooms of the Assam Jatiya Bidyalay, Noonmati.
�We have lost a guardian and a powerful voice who supported the cause of Assam at the national level,� AASU adviser Dr Samujjal Bhattacharyya said.
