Odisha: Former minister and veteran BJP leader Samir Dey passes away at 67

According to reports, Dey was admitted to the hospital in Cuttack’s CDA area on November 1 after his health deteriorated.

“Samir Dey was suffering from high blood pressure and diabetes. Two years ago, he underwent a kidney transplant. Recently, he was diagnosed with pneumonia and a liver infection, which eventually led to multi-organ failure. Despite our best efforts, we couldn’t save him. He breathed his last at 1.50 pm today,” said Dr Sampad Das of Ashwini Hospital.

A prominent figure in Odisha’s political landscape, Dey served as the state’s minister for higher education in the then Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s cabinet from 2004 to 2009. He also held the portfolio for urban development and higher education between 2000 and 2004.

Dey was elected thrice in succession to the Odisha Legislative Assembly, representing Cuttack City in 1995, 2000, and 2004.

In the 1990s, Dey played a pivotal role in energizing the BJP in Odisha. His leadership and a strong cadre of youth supporters transformed the party into a formidable force in the state.

Expressing her condolences on social media, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “I’m deeply saddened by the demise of Samir Dey. I pray to Lord Jagannath for the moksha of his soul.”

The CM, currently on a four-day visit to Singapore, announced that Dey’s last rites would be conducted with full state honours.

Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida also paid tribute, stating, “Samir Dey was actively involved since the Ram Janmabhoomi movement and set an example by connecting with people in Cuttack and nearby areas. As a minister in 2000 and 2004, he demonstrated exceptional leadership. His passing is a great loss not only for our party but for all of Odisha.”

Cuttack MP Bhartruhari Mahtab lauded Dey’s vision, saying, “He aspired to transform Cuttack into a modern city and worked tirelessly to achieve this. Under his leadership, two to three universities were established in Cuttack, and he played a crucial role in reforming the higher education sector.”

BJP National Vice President also expressed grief, stating, “This is deeply shocking. Samir Dey’s contributions to Cuttack’s development and the growth of BJP in Odisha will always be remembered.”