BHUBANESWAR: Senior Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader and former Minister Susanta Singh passed away at a private hospital in Bhubaneswar early Monday morning.
The veteran leader breathed his last at the age of 53 after a prolonged illness.
Family sources revealed that Singh had been suffering from Motor Neurone Disease (MND). He was admitted to the private hospital after his health condition deteriorated further late on Sunday night.
Singh was elected to the Odisha Legislative Assembly from Bhatli constituency in Baragada district thrice in 2009, 2014 and 2019. He also held several important portfolios, including Labour and Employees' State Insurance, Energy and Rural Development departments between 2017 and 2022, during the BJD rule.
He worked for the BJD, holding various organisational positions during his political career.
As per reports, the mortal remains of Singh will be taken to the Assembly premises and the BJD party office for last darshan. His last rites will be performed in Baragada.
Leaders from across party lines, including Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik, have extended condolences on the death of Singh.
Taking to his X handle, CM Majhi said, "I am deeply saddened to learn about the passing of senior leader and former Minister of the Odisha Government, Susanta Singh. I pray to Lord Shri Jagannath for the eternal peace of the departed soul and extend my condolences to the bereaved family members. Om Shanti."
Expressing his condolences, President and former CM Naveen Patnaik said, "I am deeply saddened to learn the passing of former minister and senior Biju Janata Dal member Susanta Singh. With his demise, the party has lost a skilled organizer and a popular leader. His contributions to strengthening the Biju Janata Dal, along with his service to the people, will always remain memorable. While praying for the eternal peace of his departed soul, I also extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved family members during this sorrowful time."
