Bhubaneswar: Surendra Nath Naik, a former Odisha minister and senior BJD leader, passed away on Friday morning at the age of 87. Naik, who had been suffering from age-related ailments, died at his residence in Bhubaneswar, according to his family.

Naik’s contributions to the state’s political landscape have been significant, and his passing marks the end of an era. He served in various capacities and was known for his dedication to public service.

His death is a great loss to the state and the BJD party. Condolences have poured in from leaders and citizens, mourning the loss of a venerable figure in Odisha’s political sphere.