Guwahati, Dec 23: Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi has expressed deep condolences over the tragic death of advocate Mridul Islam, who was fatally injured during police action at the “Raj Bhawan Chalo” protest in Guwahati on December 18.
In a heartfelt letter to Mridul Islam’s mother, Fatima Begum, Rahul Gandhi described the advocate as a courageous and dedicated member of the Congress family.
“I am deeply saddened by the untimely death of your son, advocate Mridul Islam. We have lost a fearless fighter against injustice. Advocate Mridul Islam is a proud son of Assam. His commitment and dedication to our ideological fight were admirable,” Gandhi wrote.
Gandhi praised Islam’s unwavering belief in the vision of the Constitution and his determination to take its ideals to the people. He further acknowledged the advocate’s bravery in challenging what he referred to as a “fascist regime.”
“Your son’s martyrdom stands testament to his bravery. His sacrifice shall not be forgotten, and we will continue to take his fight ahead,” Gandhi added.
Expressing solidarity with the bereaved family, Gandhi offered his condolences to Islam’s wife, Hamida Parbin, and their two young daughters. “The entire Congress family stands by you in this moment of grief,” he stated.
The condolence letter was formally handed over to Islam’s family at his residence in Boko by Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) general secretaries Rajesh Kumar Joshi and Ramanna Baruah on Monday.
Advocate Mridul Islam, a resident of Suntoli, Samaria (Boko), lost his life during the protest organized by the APCC to raise issues of alleged corruption and grievances with government policies.
Islam sustained severe injuries when police used tear gas to disperse protesters. Despite being rushed to Nemcare Hospital, he was reportedly denied admission and later passed away en route to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH).
Mridul Islam has been hailed as the first martyr in the fight against corruption. His death has sparked widespread grief and renewed calls for accountability regarding the use of excessive force during peaceful protests.
