Bhubaneswar: Veteran BJD leader V. Sugnana Kumari Deo passed away while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Chennai. She was 86.
Sugnana Deo, a member of the royal family of Khallikote, was elected to the Odisha Legislative Assembly for 10 times in her illustrious political career.
Sugnana was very active in politics and had engaged in public service for nearly 60 years.
She was elected to the Legislative Assembly 8 times from Khallikote Assembly Constituency. She was elected twice from Kabisuryanagar Constituency after delimitation.
Sugnana Deo was the daughter-in-law of Khallikote Maharaja Raja Ramchandra Mardaja Deo, who played a pivotal role in the formation of separate Odisha province. She was wife of Purna Chandra Mardaraj Deo.
Sugnana Deo has made significant contributions in the fields of education, health, communication etc in Ganjam district. For the past few years, she stayed away from active politics but kept in touch with the people.
A pall of gloom descended in Ganjam district and across the State following the demise of V. Sugnana Kumari Deo.