GUWAHATI, 23 Dec: In a heartfelt letter, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed deep sorrow over the untimely demise of advocate Mridul Islam, who died on 18 December after police fired tear gas shells at protesters during a ‘Raj Bhavan Chalo’ programme here in Assam.
Islam, an advocate by profession, was the secretary of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee’s (APCC) legal cell, and a resident of Boko in southwestern Assam.
Gandhi’s letter, addressed to Fatima Begum, the mother of the late advocate, paid tribute to his courage and sacrifices in challenging a “fascist regime.”
Describing Islam as a “proud son of Assam,” Gandhi emphasised the late advocate’s dedication to his ideological struggle, highlighting his tireless efforts in promoting constitutional values.
“Advocate Mridul was a proud son of Assam. His commitment and dedication to our ideological fight was admirable. He believed in the vision of our Constitution and strived to take it to the people. In these times, it takes tremendous courage and conviction to challenge a fascist regime,” Gandhi wrote to his mother.
He added that Mridul’s martyrdom “stands as a testimony to his bravery,” stating that his sacrifice would not be forgotten and the Congress party would continue his fight for justice.
The letter also conveyed condolences to the bereaved family, especially to advocate Mridul’s wife, Hamida Parbin, and his two young daughters. Gandhi assured them that the entire Congress family stood in solidarity with them during this painful time.
On 18 December, the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) had organised a protest march, ‘Raj Bhavan Chalo’, which quickly turned violent, resulting in police resorting to firing tear gas shells.
The police action resulted in the death of Islam, who was struck by a tear gas shell. He passed away while being taken to the Gauhati Medical College and Hospital.
