Bhubaneswar: Veteran political leader and former Odisha Minister Rasabihari Behera passed away in Kalahandi’s Bhawanipatna following a prolonged illness. He was 88.
Behera, who had been suffering from age-related ailments for a long time, breathed his last at his Bhawanipatna residence, sources said.
Born on April 12, 1938, Behera made a foray into politics as an active member of the Indian National Congress and built a long career in public service.
He was elected as an MLA from the Kokasara Assembly constituency in 1977 and 1985. He also represented Kalahandi in the Lok Sabha after being elected as a Member of Parliament in 1980.
Known for his close association with people at the grassroots, Behera consistently raised public issues on political platforms and worked for the interests of the people, regional development and social welfare.
Apart from politics, Behera had a keen interest in literature and travel writing.
People from different walks of life have mourned his demise.
