Dr Swarupananda Patra, a leading Christian figure in Odisha and president of Odisha Minority Forum (OMF), passed away on Sunday morning. He was only 62.
Throughout his life, Dr Patra worked hard for welfare and development of the minorities. A former scientist in the Indian Space Research Organisation, he was Director of Doordarshan and Director of State Institute of Educational Technology, Odisha.
Dr Patra took voluntary retirement from Government service to take up the cause and work for the rights of the minorities. Apart from being the president of the OMF, he was president of the United Theological School, Cuttack, president of the Utkal Christian Church Central Council, general secretary of the Odisha Baptist Evangelistic Crusade, president of the YMCA, Bhubaneswar and president of the Bhubaneswar Christian Community, among many other responsibilities.
“In his passing away, the Christian community has lost a leader who spoke fearlessly and stood for upholding the secular fabric of the State and the nation. Always a champion for the causes of truth and justice, he will always be remembered for his passionate role in protection of minorities and worked towards ensuring communal harmony and brotherhood and brought about a calming effect in society,” an OMF release noted.
OJM Chief and Rajya Sabha member Pyarimohan Mohapatra mourned the demise of Patra. “He was close to me over a number of years in public life and as vice-president of the Odisha Jan Morcha for one and a half years. I deeply mourn the sad demise of Dr Patra and convey my sincere condolences to the members of the bereaved family,” Mohapatra said in a condolence message.