Guwahati, Jan. 20: Babul Burmis, first Fifa referee from the Northeast, passed away following a massive cardiac arrest at his Christian Patti residence in Nagaon at 3.30 pm today.

Burmis was 67 and suffering from prolonged illness.

The ace referee, who had conducted almost all the major tournaments of the state in his career, was his best at the Santosh Trophy, Durand Cup, DCM Cup, IFA Shield and other domestic events. He had officiated in international tournaments in Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and Iran.

Burmis, who remained a bachelor throughout his life, had been the secretary of Assam Gymnastics Association and an assistant secretary of the Assam Hockey Association.

Nowgong District Sports Association president and Assam home minister Rockeybul Hussain has expressed his condolence. The sports association’s flag will fly at half-mast, its secretary Pradip Hazarika said.

Assam Cricket Association secretary Bikash Baruah has condoled Burmis’ demise on behalf of the association.