Former Assam minister and four-term Congress MLA Siddeque Ahmed died on September 13, 2026, at the age of 63 after a prolonged battle with cancer. He passed away at his residence in Baroigram in Sribhumi district at around 8 am.
Ahmed had been undergoing medical treatment for an extended period before his death. He is survived by his wife, Anima Begum, three sons and a daughter.
A prominent political figure from Assam’s Barak Valley, Ahmed represented the Karimganj South Assembly constituency as a Congress legislator for four terms. During his political career, he also served as a minister in the cabinet of former Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi.
Ahmed held several important portfolios during his tenure in the state cabinet, including Border Protection and Development, Industries and Commerce, and Cooperation. His work in these departments was acknowledged by colleagues and political leaders.
Ahmed also had a period of supporting the government during Himanta Biswa Sarma’s first term as Chief Minister, while continuing to remain a member of the Congress party. His political association with the Congress, however, was later affected by his suspension from the party. According to reports, the suspension remained in effect until his death.
Following his death, condolences were expressed by political colleagues and opponents. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recalled Ahmed's contribution as a legislator and said he had always prioritised public welfare.
Sarma also highlighted his personal bond with Ahmed despite their political differences. “We belonged to different political parties, but our bond went beyond politics, we were fellow travellers who navigated through difficult phases of life together,” Sarma said in a social media post.
The Chief Minister also expressed his condolences to Ahmed’s family. “In this difficult hour, my thoughts are with Anima Bhabi and the family. May they find the strength to overcome this irreparable loss,” Sarma said.
Congress spokesperson Bedabrat Bora said that despite Ahmed’s suspension from the party, Congress would accord him full respect and continue to consider him part of the organisation.
Several leaders and officials also remembered Ahmed for his professionalism in handling ministerial responsibilities and his compassionate approach towards people and relationships.
Ahmed’s political career was particularly associated with the Barak Valley and his constituency of Karimganj South. His contributions to areas including border protection and development, industries and commerce were acknowledged across political lines.
His death marks the end of a significant chapter in Assam’s political landscape, with leaders remembering him for his public service, political career and relationships that extended beyond party differences.
