The passing of veteran journalist and Padma Shri awardee Prafulla Govinda Baruah has left Assam in deep mourning. The Managing Director of The Assam Tribune will be cremated with full state honours at the Nabagraha crematorium in Guwahati on Monday, December 15. Family sources confirmed that senior government officials, journalists, and public figures will attend the final rites.
Baruah’s death marks the end of an era in Assamese journalism. His contribution spanned decades and shaped how news was reported, debated, and understood across the Northeast. Tributes have poured in from across political, media, and civil society circles.
A Life Dedicated to Journalism
Prafulla Govinda Baruah was more than a newspaper executive. He was a custodian of ethical journalism and editorial independence. Under his stewardship, The Assam Tribune emerged as one of India’s most respected English-language newspapers.
He believed journalism was a public service. Accuracy, balance, and responsibility were non-negotiable principles for him. Colleagues recall that he valued quiet leadership over personal publicity.
State Honours Reflect His Lasting Impact
The Assam government’s decision to accord full state honours reflects the magnitude of Baruah’s contribution. The honour is reserved for individuals who leave a lasting imprint on public life. Officials said his role in strengthening democratic discourse justified the recognition.
Senior ministers, bureaucrats, and representatives from various institutions are expected at the cremation. The state flag will drape the mortal remains, and a ceremonial guard will be present.
Tributes From Across the Spectrum
Condolences have come in from across party lines. Leaders described Baruah as a pillar of free and fair journalism in the Northeast. Several noted that his editorial restraint was rare in a time of growing noise.
Journalists remembered him as approachable yet firm. Younger reporters often sought his guidance during moments of professional uncertainty. Many credit him for nurturing talent without imposing ideology.
Guiding The Assam Tribune Through Changing Times
Baruah took charge of The Assam Tribune during a period of transition in Indian media. Print journalism faced pressure from digital platforms and shifting readership habits. Despite this, he ensured the newspaper retained credibility and relevance.
He encouraged modernization without sacrificing values. Digital expansion was pursued carefully. Editorial judgment always took precedence over sensationalism.
Champion of Assamese Identity and Dialogue
Though writing in English, Baruah remained deeply rooted in Assamese culture. He saw journalism as a bridge between regional concerns and national discourse. Issues affecting Assam and the Northeast found consistent space under his leadership.
He supported dialogue during turbulent political periods. Whether during the Assam Movement or later social debates, he believed informed discussion was the only path forward.
Recognition Beyond the Newsroom
In recognition of his service, the Government of India conferred the Padma Shri on Baruah. The award acknowledged his contribution to journalism and public life. He accepted the honour with humility, redirecting praise to his colleagues.
Several academic and media bodies had earlier honoured him for lifetime achievement. Despite accolades, he remained largely private.
A Personal Loss for the Media Fraternity
For many journalists, Baruah was a mentor rather than a boss. He rarely raised his voice. Instead, he led through example and consistency. His passing has left a void that will be difficult to fill.
Newsrooms across Assam observed moments of silence. Editorials described him as a stabilising force in uncertain times.
Final Farewell in Guwahati
The cremation at Nabagraha will mark the final farewell to a man whose words shaped generations. Security arrangements and traffic advisories have been put in place for attendees. The family has requested privacy during the rituals.
As Assam bids goodbye, the legacy of Prafulla Govinda Baruah lives on. His commitment to truth, restraint, and public service remains a benchmark for journalism in the region.