Prafulla Chandra Barua, 75, veteran journalist who had held the post of editor in prominent Assamese newspapers, died on Monday at a hospital in Guwahati after prolonged illness.

Furthermore, his family sources said that Barua was suffering from cancer and was admitted to hospital three days ago in a critical condition.

Barua was having a dynamic journalistic career spanning 50 years, was the editor of prominent newspaper 'Janambhumi' between 1969-86, Dainik Asam between 1987-95, and was presently editor of 'Uddipam', the only weekly for senior citizens in the Northeast region. Closely associated with the documentation and celebration of 150 years of newspapers in Assam by the Media Trust, he was its executive trustee.

According to the sources, while fighting for the freedom of press, Barua was arrested twice in 1981 and 1983. In fact, he had also led various journalist associations.

At the same time, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi expresses grief of his death and said Barua's contributions to journalism will remain celebrated through all time and his example as an impartial and responsible editor will be an inspiration for the future generation of journalists.

May God rest his soul in peace!

(AW:Samrat Biswas)