Kolkata, Aug. 8: West Bengal mourns the loss of one of its most prominent political figures, former Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, who passed away on Thursday at 80 (1944-2024). Bhattacharjee, a veteran leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPM], served as the Chief Minister of West Bengal from 2000 to 2011, and his tenure is remembered for significant economic and social reforms.
The end came at 8.20 in the morning, as he suffered respiratory troubles leading to a cardiac arrest while taking medicine after breakfast. A doctor arrived soon, but by the time ‘Gentleman’ of Bengal
politics had died. Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee is survived by his wife, Meera, and their daughter Suchetana.
The mortal remains of former West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee will be donated to a state-run medical college and hospital in Kolkata on Friday, by his final wish.
Surjya Kanta Mishra, a member of the CPM Politburo and a former minister in the Left Front government, informed the media that Bhattacharjee had pledged his body to medical research to benefit students.
“His body will be preserved on Thursday, and on Friday morning, it will be taken to the CPM state headquarters, where it will be kept for a period to allow people to pay their tributes”, Mishra said. Several party leaders, including Politburo members, are expected to come to offer their tributes.
Meanwhile, on Thursday afternoon his mortal remains were taken for preservation to Peace Heaven, a hearse service located in Park Street, Kolkata.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed in a post on X. “Saddened by the passing of Shri Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, former CM of West Bengal. He was a political stalwart who served the state with commitment. My heartfelt condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti”, Modi has written as a tribute to the departed leader.
Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in a statement expressed her deep condolence over the death of Bhattacharjee. “I share shock and sadness at the sudden passing of former Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee. Having known him for several decades and having visited him during his illness, I extend my heartfelt condolences to Meera di and Suchetan. My thoughts are also with the members of the CPM party and all his followers.” the Chief Minister’s statement read
Born on March 1, 1944, in the bustling city of Kolkata, Bhattacharjee was deeply influenced by Marxist ideology from a young age. He became actively involved in student politics during his college years and quickly rose through the ranks of the CPM. His leadership style was characterized by a blend of pragmatism and ideological commitment, which earned him both admiration and criticism.
During his time as Chief Minister, Bhattacharjee focused on revitalizing West Bengal’s economy, advocating for industrialization, and improving infrastructure. His government initiated several key projects, including the establishment of IT hubs and industrial parks, which aimed to attract investment and create jobs. However, his tenure was also marked by controversies, particularly regarding land acquisition policies that led to widespread protests, most notably in Nandigram and Singur.
After stepping down from office in 2011, Bhattacharjee remained an influential figure within the CPM and continued to contribute to political discourse in the state. Known for his articulate speeches and strong ideological stance, he played a crucial role in shaping the party’s strategies in the face of changing political dynamics in West Bengal.
Political leaders across the spectrum have expressed their condolences following his passing. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who succeeded Bhattacharjee, said in a statement, “We may have had our differences, but his commitment to the people of West Bengal was undeniable. His contributions to the state will always be remembered.”
CPM leaders have also paid tribute to Bhattacharjee, highlighting his dedication to the party and the principles of Marxism. “Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee was a stalwart of the Left movement in India. His vision for West Bengal will continue to inspire future generations,” said a senior party official.
As news of his death spread, many took to social media to share memories and express their sorrow. Bhattacharjee’s legacy as a leader who navigated the complexities of governance in a politically charged environment will be studied and debated for years to come.
As West Bengal reflects on the life and contributions of Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, it marks the end of an era in the state’s political landscape, one that was defined by intense ideological battles and significant socio-economic changes.