GUWAHATI: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, on Monday, paid his respects to the victims of the 2008 serial blasts that left a dark mark on the state's history.
In a message posted on a social media platform, CM Sarma expressed his condolences and emphasised the need for unity in the fight against insurgency to build a developed Assam characterised by peace and harmony.
In his message, Chief Minister Sarma said, "October 30, 2008, is a dark day in the history of Assam. On that day, many innocent people lost their lives in the clutches of insurgents. Our brothers and sisters were left with deep scars for life. On this cursed day, we pay tribute to everyone who lost their lives prematurely and express our deepest condolences to everyone who was injured."
He stressed the importance of a united effort to combat insurgency for the greater good of the state, saying, "To build a developed Assam full of peace and harmony, we have to go on a united fight against insurgency. Our government is committed to always playing an active role in this regard."
The 2008 serial blasts claimed the lives of as many as 80 people and left over 400 people physically disabled for life. The devastating attacks occurred in various locations, including Guwahati, Ganeshguri, Pan Bazar, Kachari, Barpeta, Kokrajhar, and Bongaigaon.
The serial blasts were a coordinated act of terrorism planned by the founder of the now-disbanded National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB), Ranjan Daimary.
Ranjan Daimary was subsequently found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment for his involvement in the 2008 serial blasts. Since his conviction by a special court in 2019, he has been serving his life sentence in jail. This sentencing marked a significant step towards justice for the victims and their families.