A pioneer of the six-year-long Asom movement (June 8, 1979-August 15, 1985), Phukan had carved a coveted and unique station in the contemporary history of the State leading a matchless brigade of young souls which symbolized the historic spirit of fight-back.

Taking up the cudgels in the movement against influx of illegal foreigners, the AASU under the secretaryship of Phukan successfully projected this hydra-headed problem in all its monstrosity. He did his home-work well, and his search light of analytical study and cogent remedial measures had brought relief, in clear terms, to the demographic distortion of Asom.

Amid heart-burning events and cruel chronology, the efforts of this brave-heart had clearly heralded a new epoch, bringing hopeful signs between the credibility of promises and their viable translation into solid reality.
Under him, the AASU became a catch phrase in the world political idiom.

Born in Sivasagar on April 25, 1956, this man with crusader’s zeal and skills of diplomacy had become a name in every household of Assam during the movement.

His unflinching leadership qualities took him to the heights as he became the Minister in charge of Home, Hill Development, Tourism, Excise, Passport and Border Area Development in 1985 when the AGP came to power. He was elected to the Assembly from Jalukbari constituency.

Opting to maintain a low profile since the late nineties, this ever-smiling leader had raised the youths of Asom to a living symbol of patent talent. He leaves behind his wife and daughter.

As a pall of gloom descended in the State following the news of his death, his one-time close associate Prafulla Kumar Mahanta said, “The news is heart-breaking. It’s a great loss to the State. He was with me every critical moment of the movement.”

Another associate Atul Bora said in a message, “He was more a brother than an associate. The State has lost a favourite son and the vacuum cannot be refilled.”

Governor Lt Gen (retd) Ajai Singh and Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi have condoled the death of the former Home Minister and have conveyed their sympathy to the bereaved family members.
The BJP and NCP have also condoled his demise.

(The Sentinel,21.03.2006)