Did Former Goa CM Ravi Naik Leave Us Too Soon?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Ravi Naik was a significant figure in Goan politics.
- His career spanned over four decades.
- He served as Chief Minister of Goa twice.
- Naik switched from Congress to BJP shortly before the 2022 elections.
- He was deeply committed to empowering the marginalized.
New Delhi, Oct 15 (NationPress) Goa's Agriculture Minister and former Chief Minister Ravi Naik has sadly passed away due to a sudden cardiac arrest, as confirmed by his family. Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored the veteran leader, referring to him as a dedicated public servant who significantly contributed to the development of Goa.
In a post on X, PM Modi expressed, “I am deeply saddened by the loss of Shri Ravi Naik Ji, Minister in the Goa Government. He will be remembered as an experienced administrator and devoted public servant who enriched Goa’s development trajectory. His passion for empowering the downtrodden and marginalized communities is noteworthy. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and supporters during this difficult time. Om Shanti.”
Ravi Naik was a prominent figure in Goan politics, renowned for his extensive political journey that spanned over four decades. He began his political career in the 1980s with the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) before transitioning to the Congress. Naik held the position of Chief Minister of Goa twice, first in 1991 and again in 1994, amassing a total tenure of approximately 850 days.
He was elected to the Lok Sabha, serving as an MP from 1998 to 1999. A notable face of the Congress party in Goa for many years, Naik switched allegiance to the BJP shortly before the 2022 Goa Assembly elections and was subsequently appointed as the Minister for Agriculture under the leadership of Pramod Sawant.
The current Chief Minister of Goa, Pramod Sawant, also conveyed his condolences via X, stating, “I am deeply saddened by the loss of our senior leader and cabinet minister Shri Ravi Naik Ji. A stalwart of Goan politics, his decades of dedicated service in various key portfolios have left a lasting impact on the state’s governance and its people. His leadership, humility, and commitment to public welfare will always be cherished. My sincere condolences to his family, friends, and supporters during this moment of sorrow.”
Recognized for his grassroots connection and efforts to uplift marginalized communities, Naik remained a respected individual across party lines.