SILCHAR: The Barak Democratic Front (BDF) has mourned the demise of Kalyan Kumar Chakraborty, a founding member of Cachar Cancer Hospital and Research Centre and a noted social worker who dedicated much of his life to supporting cancer patients across the Barak Valley and the Northeast.

In a condolence message issued on Thursday, BDF Chief Convenor Pradip Dutta Roy paid tribute to the departed and recalled his long association with Cachar Cancer Hospital from its formative years.

Dutta Roy said that although Chakraborty was no longer directly associated with the hospital’s managing committee in later years, he remained deeply connected with the institution until his last breath.

He pointed out that Chakraborty himself had been battling cancer for a long time. However, the illness never weakened his compassion or commitment to helping fellow patients. Rather, his personal experience strengthened his determination to stand beside others facing the same struggle.

After retiring from service, Chakraborty devoted almost his entire life to providing emotional and other forms of support to cancer patients. Many newly diagnosed patients arriving at Cachar Cancer Hospital found hope and reassurance in him. He stood beside them, encouraged them and helped make their treatment journey easier, all without expecting anything in return, Dutta Roy said.

The BDF chief convenor observed that although modern cancer treatments have advanced considerably, many challenges remain in achieving a complete cure. A cancer diagnosis often places immense emotional and psychological pressure not only on patients but also on their families.

He noted that in several developed countries, professional counselling and psychological support are recognised as important parts of cancer care, alongside treatment for physical symptoms. However, such support systems remain limited in developing countries like India, where healthcare facilities are already under considerable pressure.

Dutta Roy said Chakraborty had quietly taken up this important responsibility without being a professional counsellor. His selfless efforts in providing emotional strength and support to cancer patients would remain an inspiration for people across the Barak Valley and the Northeast.

He also prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul and conveyed his deepest condolences to the bereaved family.

The press statement was issued by BDF Convenor Debayan Deb.