BHUBANESWAR: In a significant loss to Indian politics, veteran Congress leader and former Union Minister Kanhu Charan Lenka passed away on Friday at a private hospital here. He was 86 years old.
Lenka’s public life spanned several decades, marked by dedicated service at both state and national levels. His political journey was illustrious, holding key positions that showcased his commitment to public welfare.
From 1988 to 1994, he served as a Member of Parliament from Odisha. During this period, he held ministerial positions in the Union government, including Minister of State for Agriculture from 1991 to 1994 and Minister of State for Railways. His tenure is remembered for administrative efficiency and balanced leadership.
In state politics, Lenka had a strong foothold. He represented the Choudwar assembly constituency multiple times in the Odisha Legislative Assembly, serving several terms between 1971 and 2000.
His demise has drawn condolences from leaders across party lines. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed profound grief on social media platform X, stating, ‘I am deeply saddened by the passing of senior leader, former Union Minister, and ex-MP Kanhu Charan Lenka. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family in this hour of grief. I pray to Lord Jagannath for the peaceful departed soul.’
Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee President Bhakta Charan Das and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) chief Naveen Patnaik also paid rich tributes. Patnaik described Lenka as a renowned politician whose long career contributed immensely to public service and development. His legacy, he said, will be cherished forever.
Lenka’s death marks the end of an era in Odisha politics, leaving behind a void that will be hard to fill. His contributions to agriculture, railways, and state development continue to inspire many.