Former Union Minister Debendra Pradhan Dies at 84
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Synopsis
Renowned BJP leader and former Union Minister Dr Debendra Pradhan passed away at the age of 84 at his son's residence in Delhi. Odisha's Chief Minister and other leaders mourn his loss, recognizing his significant contributions to public service and the BJP's growth in Odisha.
Key Takeaways
- Dr Debendra Pradhan was a prominent BJP leader.
- He served as Union Minister of State for Surface Transport and Agriculture.
- He played a vital role in the BJP's rise in Odisha.
- Pradhan was a founding leader of the BJP in Odisha.
- Odisha has lost a significant political figure.
Bhubaneswar/New Delhi, March 17 (NationPress) Renowned Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) figure and former Union Minister Dr Debendra Pradhan has passed away at the home of his son, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, in Delhi on Monday. He was aged 84.
The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, expressed profound sorrow regarding Pradhan's passing, honoring him as a well-respected leader and a skilled parliamentarian who devoted his life to public service. Majhi noted Pradhan’s substantial contributions as Union Minister of State for Surface Transport and Agriculture from 1999 to 2001, along with his pivotal role in shaping the political and developmental framework of Odisha.
"Pradhan was instrumental in the ascension of the BJP in Odisha and provided steadfast leadership as the state party president. His passing represents a significant loss to the nation and Odisha, having lost a distinguished public servant," Majhi remarked. He also conveyed his condolences to Dharmendra Pradhan and his family, wishing them strength in this difficult time.
Naveen Patnaik, the Leader of the Opposition in the Odisha Assembly, also paid tribute to Pradhan, acknowledging him as a remarkable leader renowned for his organizational abilities and modest demeanor. Patnaik praised Pradhan’s time in Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s cabinet, where he held critical ministerial positions and showcased administrative excellence.
"With the passing of Dr Pradhan, Odisha has lost a significant political figure and a beloved leader," Patnaik stated, extending his sympathies to the grieving family.
Born on July 16, 1941, in Nalam, a village in the Kaniha block of Angul district in Odisha, Pradhan was originally a doctor. He was among the founding leaders of the BJP in Odisha and served as the state party president on two occasions, from 1989 to 1993 and again from 1996 to 1997.
During the 13th Lok Sabha (1998–2004), Pradhan represented the Deogarh constituency, during which he served as Minister of State for Surface Transport and Agriculture.
At the time of his departure, he was in the company of his son, Dharmendra Pradhan, daughter-in-law, Mridula Pradhan, and wife, Basant Manjari Pradhan.
A number of Odisha ministers and BJP leaders have expressed their condolences over Pradhan's passing, reminiscing about his lifelong commitment to public service and his impact on the political landscape of the state.
