Former Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi was honoured with the State’s highest civilian award, Assam Baibhav, in a ceremony held in Guwahati on Tuesday. Governor Gulab Chand Kataria presented the prestigious award to Gogoi, who currently serves as a member of the Rajya Sabha. The ceremony was attended by Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar during his day-long tour to present highest civilian awards – Assam Baibhav, Assam Saurabh and Assam Gaurav.
The State Government recognised 22 individuals from diverse sectors for their outstanding contributions, with the award carrying a cash prize of ₹5 lakh and lifelong medical treatment sponsored by the Assam Government.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma praised Gogoi’s remarkable impact in the field of justice delivery, stating that it was a privilege to witness him receiving the Assam Baibhav. The award was conferred on the 69-year-old Gogoi in recognition of his significant contributions to the field of justice and jurisprudence. “As a distinguished legal luminary, this (award) aptly acknowledges the remarkable impact he has made in the realm of justice delivery,” said the CM.
As the only person from the Northeast to serve as Chief Justice, Gogoi’s achievements hold particular significance. During his tenure significant move like the updating of the National Register of Citizens of 1951 for Assam was taken.
In addition to Gogoi, swimmer Elvis Ali Hazarika, athlete Hima Das, and others were honoured with Assam’s secondary civilian award, Assam Saurav, and Assam Gaurav, respectively. These awards were instituted after Dr Himanta became Chief Minister in 2021. The Assam Gaurav was awarded to 17 other achievers in their respective fields.
Vice President Dhankhar commended the awardees for their efforts towards societal betterment and highlighted the rich cultural diversity of Assam reflected in the awards. He expressed gratitude for witnessing the ceremony, emphasising its significance in celebrating individual and collective achievements.
The Vice President wrote on social media, “Grateful for the honour and privilege of witnessing this amazing function with total commitment to societal growth. Conferment of the Assam Civilian Awards is beyond just a celebration of individual achievement. It is also a reflection of the rich tapestry of Assam, its people and their invaluable contribution to the progress and cultural diversity of a great nation. The variety of awards has been so deep, so touching, so emotive!”
