GUWAHATI, Nov 23: The State sports fraternity has mourned the demise of former Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, who passed away at the Gauhati Medical College Hospital (GMCH) here today. Gogoi was also the president of the Assam Olympic Association (AOA) for a long time and was instrumental in organising the National Games in Guwahati in 2007.
�I still remember when we approached him regarding the hosting of the National Games... He straightaway gave us the go ahead sign. He ensured that no stone remain unturned in successfully hosting the Games. It is a great loss for the State,� said Assam�s first Arjuna awardee Bhogeswar Baruah. AOA general secretary Lakhya Konwar termed Gogoi�s demise as a great loss for the sporting fraternity of the State. �We will keep the flag at half mast for the next seven days... He was such a positive person and I believe, after Radha Govinda Baruah he was the only other person who took initiative in developing infrastructure for sports in the State,� Konwar said.
�I met him a few times and all I could feel was that he was very encouraging. He would never say no whenever we approached him for any help,� recalled former international footballer Gilbertson Sangma.
�He was very encouraging and always ensured any sort of help. His contribution towards sports in Assam will always be remembered,� said former international athlete Tayabun Nisha.
