Assamese writer Indira Goswami, who played a key role in peace talks with separatist group ULFA, died Tuesday morning after prolonged illness, local media reported. She was 69.

Goswami aka Mamoni Raisom Goswami was a recipient of the Jnanpith, India's most prestigious literary award. She mediated peace talks between the Indian government and the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA), a rebel group seeking independence for Assam.

Her best known works include The Moth Eaten Howdah of a Tusker, Pages Stained With Blood and The Man from Chinnamasta. Her works mostly focused on bringing about a social change.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has condoled the passing away of acclaimed writer Indira Goswami. In a condolence message to the litterateur's brother Satyabrata Goswami, the Prime Minister described as one of the most influential writers and commentators in Assamese.

I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing away of Smt. Indira Goswami. Popularly know as Mamoni, she was undoubtedly one of the most influential writers and commentators in Assamese in recent times. Her literary work earned her many awards including the Jnanpith award, said the PM.

Her widely acclaimed writings specially Nilkanthi Broja and The Moth Eaten Howdah of a Tusker have universal appeal and show a sensitive depiction of the trauma of widowhood. Smt. Goswami served as professor of modern Indian Languages in the University of Delhi with distinction.

She played an important role in bringing peace to the state of Assam by promoting discussion and reconciliation among the parties.

Smt. Goswami's death will be mourned widely across our country by the admirers of her literary and social work. I convey my sincere condolences to you and other members of her family and her many friends and well-wishers, read Singh's message.

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