He was 80 and breathed his last at his residence in Kolkata’s Palm Avenue.
President Droupadi Murmu wrote on X,”Saddened to learn that former West Bengal chief minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee is no more. The veteran leader personified dignity and was an epitome of principled politics. He will be long remembered for dedication to the welfare of the people of West Bengal. My heartfelt condolences to his family and followers.”
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has announced government holiday today over the loss. “I am saddened by the sudden demise of former West Bengal Chief Minister Shri Buddhadev Bhattacharya. I have known him for decades and visited him at home a few times when he was ill in the last few years. I feel very sad right now. My sincere condolences to Meeradi and Suchetan in this time of bereavement. My sincere condolences to all CPI(M) party members, supporters and all their followers,” she wrote on X.
West Bengal Governor CB Ananda Bose in a statement said, “HG (Honourable Governor) has expressed his grief at the passing away of former Chief Minister of West Bengal Shri Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee. HG prays ALMIGHTY gives the departed leader’s family and well-wishers the strength to bear this irreparable loss with fortitude.”
TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee wrote on X, “I am deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, the former Chief Minister of West Bengal. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, loved ones and admirers during this difficult time. May they draw strength in this time of sorrow. Om Shanti!”
West Bengal Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari said, “I am deeply saddened to learn that former West Bengal Chief Minister; Shri Buddhadeb Bhattacharya has left for his heavenly abode. Condolences to his family members and admirers. I pray that his soul finds eternal peace. Om Shanti.”
CPIM leader Md. Salim, Suryakanta Misra, Biman Bose, students leader Srijan Bhattacharya, Congress leader and his neighbour Pradip Bhattacharya visited his residence and paid tribute to him. Pradip Bhattacharya said, “I was his neighbour for many many years but never our relation was bitter. This is political good gesture.”
“A stalwart in public service, his extensive experience of over 5 decades as an MLA, Minister and later as Chief Minister has left an indelible mark. His simplicity, rich contributions to Bengali literature and commitment to community service were noteworthy,” Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma wrote in a post on X.
Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu wrote, “His vast tenure of over five decades as an MLA, Minister, and eventually as Chief Minister has left a lasting legacy. Renowned for his humility, significant contributions to Bengali literature, and unwavering dedication to public service, he will be deeply missed.”
Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee suffered from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease for some years and is survived by his wife Mira and daughter Suchetana. He assumed the role of Chief Minister after Jyoti Basu – the then longest serving chief minister in the country – stepped down due to his health. Renowned as a reformist, Bhattacharjee had led the Left front to consecutive victories in the assembly polls in 2001 and 2006.
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