Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has expressed deep grief over the demise of former Odisha Assembly Speaker Surjya Narayan Patro, who passed away while undergoing treatment at a hospital here on Saturday.
In a condolence message, the Chief Minister has described Patro as an efficient administrator and organizer.
As minister of various departments, Patro facilitated the development process of the state. As Speaker, he played an important role in keeping the parliamentary tradition intact in Odisha.
The Chief Minister said that Patro was loved by everyone irrespective of party and opinion for his pleasant nature.
As a senior leader of the Biju Janata Dal, Patro gave a new direction to the party. He played an important role in strengthening the party, especially in Ganjam district. His departure has created a huge vacuum in state politics, Naveen said.
The Chief Minister expressed deep condolences to the bereaved family and prayed peace to the departed soul.