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Key Points

Prasanna Patanayak, the first BJP MLA in Odisha, passed away at the age of 77 due to age-related ailments. His political career in Kamakhyanagar spanned multiple parties, including the Janata Party and Janata Dal. Patanayak was instrumental in boosting education by establishing over 15 schools and colleges. Leaders, including CM Mohan Charan Majhi, expressed condolences, underscoring his profound impact on both politics and education in Odisha.

Key Points: Prasanna Patanayak First BJP MLA in Odisha Passes at 77

  • Prasanna Patanayak was first BJP MLA in Odisha
  • Served Kamakhyanagar constituency from 1980-1985
  • Established over 15 educational institutions in Odisha
2 min read

First BJP MLA in Odisha Assembly Prasanna Patanayak breathes his last

Prasanna Patanayak, Odisha's first BJP MLA, leaves a legacy of politics and education.

"His matchless contribution...is an irreparable loss to the state. - CM Mohan Charan Majhi"

Bhubaneswar, May 30

Former MLA and senior BJP leader Prasanna Patanayak passed away at the age of 77 on Friday. He was undergoing treatment for age-related ailments at a private hospital in Bhubaneswar.

Patanayak was the first BJP MLA who was elected to the Odisha Assembly from Kamakhyanagar constituency of Dhenkanal district. He was MLA from 1980 to 1985.

He had earlier been elected to the Odisha Assembly from the same constituency on the erstwhile Janata Party ticket from 1977 to 1980. He was again elected as MLA from Janata Dal for Kamakhyanagar from 1990 to 1995.

Patanayak was elected as MLA from Kamakhyanagar Assembly three times on a trot from 1977 to 1990. Patanayak also established over 15 schools and colleges in the Kamakhyanagar and Bhuban areas, earning him immense popularity.

Some of his notable achievements include the establishment of Kamakhyanagar College and 'Sarangadhar Setu' and "Baji Rout Setu" bridge over River Brahmani at Bhuban in Dhenkanal.

Patanayak's mortal remains will be brought from Bhubaneswar to his residence in Kamakhyanagar and then taken to Puri Swargadwar for cremation.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and other senior leaders of the party also expressed their deep condolences on the demise of Patanayak. “I am deeply saddened and heartbroken by the passing away of Prasanna Patanayak, a hardworking leader of Odisha politics and the first BJP MLA from Odisha. His matchless contribution towards the fields of education, social service, and politics, and his immense contribution in strengthening the organization of our party will always be remembered. His passing away is an irreparable loss to the state. My deepest condolences to the departed soul. May Lord Jagannath grant peace to his immortal soul and give patience to his family in this difficult time,” wrote CM Majhi.

In his condolences message, Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo wrote, “Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri @PrasannaP_BJP, a stalwart leader and the first BJP MLA of Odisha. His contributions to education and public service have left an indelible mark on Kamakhyanagar and beyond. His dedication to empowering communities and shaping Odisha’s political landscape will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.”

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sanjay P.
A true son of Odisha soil! His work in education will live on for generations. The schools he built have transformed so many lives in rural areas. May his soul attain moksha 🙏
P
Priyanka M.
Such a loss for Odisha politics. Leaders like him who worked at grassroots level are rare these days. His bridges over Brahmani river still serve thousands daily - that's real development work!
R
Rahul K.
While I didn't agree with all his political views, no one can deny his dedication to public service. Building 15 educational institutions is no small feat. Om Shanti.
M
Madhavi S.
My father studied at Kamakhyanagar College built by him. Entire generations got quality education because of his vision. True leaders work for people, not just politics. Salute to this great soul!
A
Anil D.
Interesting how he represented different parties over the years but his work for people remained constant. Shows ideology matters less than actual development work. May his family find strength.
K
Kirti N.
His passing marks the end of an era in Odisha politics. Today's leaders should learn from his example - serving people first, politics second. The bridges and schools stand as his legacy. #RIP

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