Odisha Governor, CM Naveen Patnaik condole demise of Damodar Rout

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Governor Raghubar Das and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today expressed grief over the demise of veteran politician and former Odisha Minister Damodar Rout.

“The Hon’ble Governor has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former minister and senior politician Damodar Raut and expressed his condolences to the bereaved family and followers,” the Governor’s ‘X’ handle posted.

“I am saddened to learn about the demise of senior Biju Janata Party leader and former minister Damodar Raut. This is an irreparable loss in Odisha politics. His work for the service and betterment of the people will always be remembered. May his soul rest in peace and my condolences to the bereaved family members,” the CM posted on ‘X’.

Rout passed away while undergoing treatment at a private hospital here, this morning. He was declared brain dead, yesterday.

The health condition of the senior BJD leader was critical after a massive heart attack on March 18 night. He was on a life support system at a private hospital in Bhubaneswar.

The 81-year-old politician was recently discharged from a private hospital after undergoing treatment for a certain illness.

Rout’s wife Snehalata Mohapatra, a retired teacher, had predeceased him. Rout is survived by his son Sambit, an MLA from Paradip and daughter Preetinanda Routray, a corporator from Ward no. 6 under Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC).