Former Sambalpur MLA Dr Raseswari Panigrahi Passes Away at 79

Bhubaneswar, Feb 16 : Dr Raseswari Panigrahi, a noted gynaecologist and former MLA from Sambalpur, passed away on Monday at the age of 79. She had been battling neurological disorders and was undergoing treatment at her residence in Sambalpur city, family sources said.

Dr Panigrahi was elected to the Odisha Legislative Assembly from the Sambalpur constituency in 2014 as a candidate of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD). She later contested the 2019 Assembly elections from the same seat but was defeated.

A respected medical professional, Dr Panigrahi earned recognition as a dedicated gynaecologist before entering active politics. She was the sister of former MP Sriballav Panigrahi and remained a prominent political figure in western Odisha.

Ahead of the 2024 Assembly elections, she resigned from the BJD after being denied a party ticket.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep grief over her demise. In his condolence message, he said he was saddened by the passing of the former MLA and eminent physician. The Chief Minister extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed to Lord Jagannath for the eternal peace of the departed soul.

Her death has been widely mourned by political leaders, medical fraternity members, and residents of Sambalpur, who remembered her for her service in both healthcare and public life.