Bhubaneswar: Senior BJD leader and Odisha MLA Rajendra Dholakia passed away on Monday while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Chennai. He was 69.
A four-time legislator from Nuapada and a former Minister, Dholakia had recently undergone a heart surgery and was scheduled for a kidney transplant when his health deteriorated. He breathed his last in the morning, family sources said.
His sudden demise has cast a shadow of grief in political circles. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has expressed profound grief over his demise and conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family. “Deeply saddened to learn about the demise of the MLA and former minister Rajendra Dholakia. I convey my condolences to the bereaved family and pray to Lord Shree Jagannath for the peaceful soul of the departed. Om Shanti,” Majhi said in a post on X.
Dholakia was first elected as an independent MLA in 2004 and later joined the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), where he became a prominent voice for tribal and rural development.
Sources indicate that his mortal remains will be flown to Bhubaneswar on Tuesday and taken to the state Assembly for public homage.
Condolences poured in from political leaders, social organisations and intellectuals across the state.
Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo described Dholakia as a ‘towering figure in Odisha’s public life’ and praised his legacy of service, leadership, and commitment to the people of western Odisha.
“Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Rajendra Dholakia Ji, former Minister and four-time MLA from Nuapada. A towering figure in Odisha’s public life, his legacy is defined by unwavering service, grassroots leadership, and a profound commitment to the people of western Odisha. I pray to Mahaprabhu Jagannath to grant his noble soul eternal peace and a place at His divine feet. My heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, and the people of Nuapada. Om Shanti,” he said in a post on X
Deputy CM Pravati Parida also expressed her grief, praying for Dholakia’s eternal peace and extending condolences to his family. “I am deeply saddened and heartbroken to learn of the passing of the esteemed Nimapara MLA, Rajendra Dholakia. While praying at the feet of Lord Jagannath for the eternal peace of his soul, I extend my condolences to his bereaved family during this hour of grief,” she posted on X.