Guwahati is mourning the loss of Abdul Muhib Mazumder, a towering figure in Assam's legal and political landscape, who breathed his last this morning at Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH). He was 90 years old and had been undergoing treatment at the facility since September.
Born on August 20, 1932, in Hailakandi town, Mazumder embarked on a remarkable career that saw him serve multiple terms as a Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) from the Hailakandi Constituency. His electoral victories spanned from 1983 to 1991, again in 1996, and for a final term in 2011. Throughout his political journey, he also held significant portfolios as a Cabinet Minister in the Government of Assam, contributing to various aspects of state administration and policy-making.
Among his most notable contributions, Mazumder is widely recognised as the principal architect behind the controversial yet pivotal Illegal Migrants (Determination by Tribunals) Act, 1983 (IMDT Act), which aimed to address the issue of illegal immigration in Assam. His father, Abdul Matlib Mazumder, was a respected freedom fighter, further cementing the family's deep roots in public service.
Following his demise, Abdul Muhib Mazumder's mortal remains will be transported from GMCH to his residence in Hatigaon. The final rites are scheduled to be performed later today, as per family sources, marking the end of an era for a leader who dedicated decades to the service of Assam.