File Picture
Former West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, who will be remembered both for his commitment to the communist ideology and a pragmatic approach to industrialising the state, passed away at the age of 80 at his residence in Kolkata .
Bhattacharjee, a stalwart of the Communist Party of India-Marxist, was known for his efforts to bring industrialisation to the state, an endeavour that, despite his best intentions, eventually led to the downfall of the Left Front government after 34 years of continuous rule.
Bhattacharjee is survived by wife Mira and daughter Suchetana.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who succeeded Bhattacharjee after the 2011 elections, also paid her respects, highlighting the former chief minister’s contributions to the state.
“He will be remembered for his work,” she said, recalling her visits to him during his illness.
Bhattacharya, known for leading a spartan life, died at 8.30 am at his two-room government flat on Palm Avenue, where he resided both during his tenure as chief minister and beyond.
Bhattacharjee’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief from across the political spectrum.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee
Shocked and saddened by the sudden demise of the former Chief Minister Sri Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee. I have been knowing him for last several decades, and visited him a few times when he was ill and effectively confined to home in the last few years.
My very sincere condolences…
— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) August 8, 2024
Abhishek Banerjee , TMC MP, General Secretary
I am deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, the former Chief Minister of West Bengal.
My thoughts and prayers are with his family, loved ones and admirers during this difficult time.
May they draw strength in this time of sorrow. Om Shanti!
— Abhishek Banerjee (@abhishekaitc) August 8, 2024
Mahua Moitra, TMC MP
Deepest condolences to the family of Shri Buddhadev Bhattacharya ex CM of West Bengal – may he rest in peace.
— Mahua Moitra (@MahuaMoitra) August 8, 2024
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge
My deepest condolences on the passing away of Former Chief Minister of West Bengal, Shri Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee.
He served the people in a political career spanning more than five decades.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and comrades. pic.twitter.com/jsT0FbCNdl
— Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) August 8, 2024
M K Stalin, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister
Deeply saddened by the passing away of Comrade Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, a stalwart of the Left movement and former Chief Minister of West Bengal. His steadfast dedication and service to both the state and the nation will be eternally remembered.
A resolute Marxist, he devoted… pic.twitter.com/WOVDWBxICF
— M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) August 8, 2024
