He was the state jail minister and social welfare minister during the Left Front regime for over two decades from 1987 to 2011. During his tenure, he encouraged cultural activities among inmates.

RSP general secretary Manoj Bhattacharya said Chowdhury’s mortal remains would be taken to his hometown Balurghat for final rites.

Condoling his demise, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee wrote on her X handle, “I am saddened by the demise of former state minister Bishwanath Chowdhury. Although he did politics against me, we had a very good relationship. On hearing about his illness, we admitted him to SSKM Hospital and arranged for treatment. But none of the efforts worked.”

She further wrote, “My sincere condolences to his family, friends and colleagues on this sad day. As a tribute to the memory of the former minister, there will be a half-day holiday today in all state government offices, corporations, etc., which are open.”