Former West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee Passes Away at 80
Posted by admin on 2024-08-08 |
Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, the former Chief Minister of West Bengal, passed away on Thursday at the age of 80. He breathed his last at his residence after battling chronic respiratory issues for several years. Bhattacharjee leaves behind his wife, Mira, and their son, Suchetan.
A Life of Simplicity and Service
Known for his modest lifestyle, Bhattacharjee spent his final moments in the two-bedroom flat on Palm Avenue, where he once managed the affairs of the state. To fulfill his wishes, his organs will be donated to medical research. The late leader's body will be kept at the CPI(M) headquarters to allow his followers to pay their respects, with his last journey scheduled for tomorrow.
A Stalwart of CPI(M) and West Bengal Politics
Bhattacharjee, a veteran leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), served as the Chief Minister of West Bengal from 2000 to 2011. He succeeded Jyoti Basu and led the state for over a decade until he was defeated by Mamata Banerjee in the 2011 assembly elections, marking the end of the Left Front's 34-year-long rule.
From Teacher to Political Leader
An alumnus of Presidency College, Kolkata, Bhattacharjee initially worked as a school teacher before fully dedicating himself to politics. He joined the CPI(M) in 1966 as a primary member, and by 1968, he had been elected as the state secretary of the Democratic Youth Federation, which later became part of the Democratic Youth Federation of India. His political journey saw him rise to the state committee of the CPI(M) in 1972 and the state secretariat in 1982.
Roles and Contributions
Throughout his political career, Bhattacharjee held various significant positions. He served as the Minister of Information and Public Relations in the West Bengal cabinet, as well as the Minister of Information and Cultural Affairs. He also oversaw departments such as Urban Development and Municipal Affairs. Bhattacharjee was a former member of the CPI(M)'s top decision-making body, the Politburo.
Condolences and Tributes
The news of Bhattacharjee's passing has elicited heartfelt tributes from across the political spectrum. CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury described the news as "shattering,". "His dedication to the party, West Bengal, our shared ideals and also his ability to look ahead will always function as a lodestar," he said.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her shock and sadness at the sudden demise of her predecessor. “Shocked and saddened by the sudden demise of the former Chief Minister Sri Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee. I have been knowing him for last several decades, and visited him a few times when he was ill and effectively confined to home in the last few years. My very sincere condolences to Meeradi and Suchetan at this hour of grief. I communicate my condolences to the members of the CPI(M) party and all his followers,” she wrote on X. She added, “We have already taken a decision that we shall give him full respect and ceremonial honour during his last journey and rites.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was saddened by the news. "He was a political stalwart who served the state with commitment. My heartfelt condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti," the Prime Minister said on X.
