Veteran BJD Leader and Nuapada MLA Rajendra Dholakia Passes Away at 69
In a sad development for Odisha politics, senior Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MLA Rajendra Dholakia has passed away while receiving treatment at a private hospital in Chennai. The 69-year-old leader was battling a kidney ailment, and his death on Monday has left the political community in mourning.
Dholakia, a four-time MLA from Nuapada constituency, dedicated his life to public service and strengthening the BJD party. Leaders from across parties, including Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik, quickly shared their condolences, highlighting his contributions to western Odisha and grassroots leadership.
Chief Minister Majhi took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his grief. "Deeply saddened to learn about the demise of the Nuapada MLA and former minister Rajendra Dholakia. I convey my condolences to the bereaved family and pray to Lord Shree Jagannath for the peace of the departed soul," he wrote.
Naveen Patnaik, BJD president and Leader of Opposition, also mourned the loss of this key party figure. "I am deeply saddened to learn about the demise of senior BJD leader, Nuapada MLA, and former minister Rajendra Dholakia. He was always at the forefront in strengthening the party’s organization and raising his voice for the rights of the people. His passing is an irreparable loss for the party. His contributions to public service will always remain memorable," Patnaik stated. He extended his heartfelt condolences to Dholakia’s family.
Deputy Chief Minister K.V. Singh Deo echoed similar sentiments on X. "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."
Dholakia’s political journey began when he won the Nuapada seat in the Odisha Legislative Assembly as an independent candidate from 2004 to 2009. He later joined BJD and secured victories in 2009-2014 and 2019-2024. In the 2024 assembly elections, he won for the fourth time, continuing his strong hold on the constituency.
From June 5, 2022, to June 3, 2024, Dholakia served as Minister of State for Planning and Convergence, playing a key role in Odisha’s development plans. His death marks a big loss for BJD and the people of Nuapada, where he championed local issues and party growth.
Tributes continue to pour in for this dedicated Odisha politician, whose legacy of service will inspire many.
