ASSAM: 22nd DEATH ANNIVERSARY OF HITESWAR SAIKIA

The state pays homage to its two-time chief minister, Hiteswar Saikia on his 22nd death anniversary

A senior leader of Indian National Congress, Hiteswar Saikia was the chief minister of Assam for two terms from 1983 to 1985 and 1991 to 1996

The 61-year old Saikia was not only one of the most controversial politicians in the post independence era but also an important player during the tumultuous period when the state was gripped by insurgency

A marked man throughout his career, Saikia had loved Politics without caring for his life.While growing in political stature, Saikia acquired a controversial tag. But he had his share of accolades too. Using the carrot-and-stick policy, he split the ULFA and the agitating Bodos. Infact his deft handling of the violence led to a semblance of normalcy in Assam

In his 22nd death anniversary the state mourns the loss of an able vote-catcher and charismatic Assamese leader