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Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday paid tribute to the legendary former chief minister Biju Patnaik on his death anniversary. The chief minister expressed his admiration for Biju Patnaik's contributions to education, empowerment, and his role as a freedom fighter.
He posted on X: "Humble tributes to the great public figure, freedom fighter and former Chief Minister of Odisha, Biju Patnaik, on his death anniversary. His contribution towards education and empowerment will always remain an inspiration for all. He was a proud Odia with self-esteem."
Naveen Patnaik and BJD Leaders Remember Biju Patnaik
Biju Patnaik’s younger son, Naveen Patnaik, Leader of Opposition in the Odisha Assembly, also paid his respects by offering a floral tribute at Biju Patnaik Park.
In a post on X, Naveen described Biju Patnaik as the "pride of Odisha," citing his fearless life and courage as an inspiration to millions of Odias. He emphasized that Biju Patnaik's mantra of "living with the people and working for the people" continues to guide them in serving the people of Odisha.
Several leaders from Biju Janata Dal (BJD), led by party coordination committee chairman Debi Prasad Mishra, participated in a 'Tila Tarpan' ritual at 'Bindu Sagar,' a sacred tank near the Shree Lingaraj temple. The party also held a 'Tirodhan Diwas' programme at Sankha Bhawan to honor the late leader's legacy.
Biju Patnaik's Legacy and Political Contributions
Biju Patnaik, born on March 5, 1916, in Cuttack, Odisha, passed away on April 17, 1997, in New Delhi. He served as Odisha's Chief Minister twice—first from 1961 to 1963 and later from 1990 to 1995.
He was also the Union Minister of Steel, Mines, and Coal. As a freedom fighter, Biju Patnaik endured several incarcerations during India’s struggle for independence. His political career included four terms in the Lok Sabha, one term in the Rajya Sabha, and seven terms in the Odisha Assembly.
In a solemn ceremony, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Odisha Assembly Speaker Surama Padhy, Deputy Chief Minister KV Singh Deo, DCM Pravati Parida, and other senior BJD leaders paid floral tributes at the statue of Biju Patnaik in the Odisha Assembly premises.
Speaker Surama Padhy reflected on Biju Patnaik's monumental contributions to strengthening and developing Odisha post-independence.
(With PTI Inputs)
