What Led to the Passing of Senior BJD MLA and Ex-Minister Rajendra Dholakia at 69?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The unfortunate passing of Rajendra Dholakia, a prominent figure in Odisha politics, has sparked widespread sorrow across party lines. As a dedicated leader and public servant, his contributions to the BJD and the Nuapada constituency will be remembered for years to come. Discover more about his impactful legacy and the reactions from his peers.
Key Takeaways
- Rajendra Dholakia was a prominent figure in Odisha politics.
- He served four terms as an MLA representing Nuapada.
- Dholakia was known for his grassroots leadership and commitment to the people.
- His passing has elicited condolences from leaders across political parties.
- He held the position of Minister of State for Planning and Convergence.
Bhubaneswar, Sep 8 (NationPress) Senior Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MLA and former Minister Rajendra Dholakia passed away on Monday while receiving treatment at a private hospital in Chennai. Dholakia, who had been battling a kidney ailment, died at the age of 69. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Leader of Opposition (LoP) Naveen Patnaik, Deputy Chief Ministers K.V. Singh Deo and Pravati Parida, along with others from various political parties, expressed their condolences regarding the untimely demise of the Nuapada MLA.
In a post on X, CM Majhi expressed, “I am deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Nuapada MLA and former minister Rajendra Dholakia. My heartfelt condolences go out to his grieving family, and I pray to Lord Shree Jagannath for the eternal peace of his soul.”
BJD president and LoP Patnaik also conveyed his sorrow over the news of Dholakia's death. “I am profoundly saddened by the loss of our senior BJD leader, Nuapada MLA, and former minister Rajendra Dholakia. His dedication to strengthening the party's foundation and advocating for the rights of the people will be remembered. His passing is a significant loss for our party, and his contributions to public service will always be cherished,” stated Patnaik.
He further extended his condolences to the family of the departed leader.
“I am deeply saddened by the loss of Shri Rajendra Dholakia Ji, a former Minister and four-time MLA from Nuapada. A towering presence in Odisha’s public affairs, his legacy is marked by steadfast service, grassroots leadership, and a deep commitment to the people of western Odisha. I pray to Mahaprabhu Jagannath to grant his noble soul eternal peace and a place at His divine feet. My heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, and the people of Nuapada,” Deputy CM Singh Deo wrote on X.
Dholakia served as the representative for Nuapada constituency in the Odisha Legislative Assembly from 2004 to 2009 as an independent candidate. He was subsequently elected as a BJD candidate from the same constituency during the terms of 2009-2014 and 2019-2024. He was re-elected to the assembly for the fourth time in the 2024 assembly elections.
He held the position of Minister of State for the Planning and Convergence department from June 5, 2022, to June 3, 2024.
Point of View
I believe that Rajendra Dholakia's death marks a significant loss not only for the BJD but for the entire political fabric of Odisha. His unwavering dedication to public service and his ability to connect with the grassroots has left an indelible mark. It is essential to honor his contributions while reflecting on the impact of such losses in the political realm.
NationPress
08/09/2025
