Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed deep grief over the passing away of veteran freedom fighter and former MP Bhabani Charan Patnaik.
The Chief Minister described late Bhabani Patnaik as a great patriot who had dedicated his entire life for the cause of the common man.
A strong believer of Gandhian principles he was a close associate of Biju Babu. A man of indomitable spirit Bhabani Babu was very active till his death. In his death the Nation lost a true Gandhian and karmayogi, Naveen said.
The Chief Minister also conveyed his deep sympathy to the bereaved families.
Bhabani Patnaik passed away this evening while undergoing treatment here. He was 98.
He was elected to Rajya Sabha for three terms in 1961, 1966 and 1978.