Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, has expressed profound grief at the passing of Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, the former Chief Minister of West Bengal. Sarma lauded Bhattacharjee as a stalwart of public service, recognizing his extensive experience over more than five decades as an MLA, Minister, and Chief Minister. Bhattacharjee’s contributions left an indelible mark on Indian politics and society.
Life and Legacy of Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee
Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee passed away at the age of 80 on Thursday morning in Kolkata, after suffering from age-related ailments. He is survived by his wife, Mira, & their daughter, Suchetana.
Bhattacharjee’s tenure as West Bengal’s Chief Minister began in 2000. It lasted for eleven consecutive years, making him the second and last Chief Minister of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) after Jyoti Basu.
Political Career and Impact
His leadership marked Bhattacharjee’s political career during a transformative period for West Bengal. His term as Chief Minister saw significant developments, but he lost the 2011 assembly election to Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress, ending the CPI(M)-led Left Front’s 34-year rule in the state. He stepped down from the CPI(M) politburo and central committee in 2015 and retired from active politics in 2018.
Final Years and Public Farewell
In his final years, Bhattacharjee remained largely away from public engagements, living a reclusive life in a government apartment at Palm Avenue in south Kolkata. His passing marks the end of an era for Indian politics, and his contributions to Bengali literature and community service remain remembered. Chief Minister Sarma extended his heartfelt condolences to Bhattacharjee’s family and supporters, offering prayers for his soul’s peace.
