Guwahati, Jan 8: The Assam government has declared a one-day holiday across Cachar district on Thursday to pay tribute to former Union Minister Kabindra Purkayastha, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 94.

Purkayastha, a senior BJP leader, represented the Silchar Lok Sabha constituency three times—in 1991, 1998, and 2009. He also served as Union Minister of State for Communications during Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s first government from 1998 to 1999.

The Chief Minister’s office announced the holiday via a post on X, stating that it reflects “the collective grief of the people” and honours Purkayastha’s legacy. The Assam BJP has also suspended all scheduled activities for the day.

Purkayastha passed away at Silchar Medical College and Hospital due to age-related ailments. His last rites are scheduled for Thursday. He is survived by his son, Rajya Sabha MP Kanad Purkayastha, and a daughter; his wife predeceased him.