Prime Minister Narendra Modi mourned JB Patnaik’s death, saying he would be remembered as a “pillar of Odisha politics”.
In a statement, the PM said, “Shri JB Patnaik’s contribution to Odisha’s development will always be remembered. Saddened on his demise. Condolences to his family.” “Shri Patnaik will be remembered as a pillar of Odisha politics, a popular leader always connected with people’s views and aspirations,” Modi added.
Congress president Sonia Gandhi and vice-president Rahul Gandhi also condoled Patnaik’s death. In her message, Sonia Gandhi said Patnaik spent decades in the service of people and he remained a Congressman till the end.
His absence would be felt in the years to come, she added. Rahul Gandhi said Patnaik served people of the country with dedication. “I extend my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones on his demise,” he said. President Pranab Mukherjee also condoled Patnaik’s death and said the Nation has lost an eminent leader whose service would always be remembered.
Mukherjee said as a Chief Minister, Union Minister and Governor, Patnaik had made immense contributions for the welfare and development of people. In his condolence message to Patnaik’s wife Jayanti, the President said he was saddened to learn about the passing away of Patnaik, “a friend and colleague of long years”.