Former Bengal CM Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee passes away

Former West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee has passed away at the age of 80. He died at his residence in Kolkata at 8:20 am on Thursday.

Bhattacharjee had been ill for an extended period, suffering from COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and other age-related ailments. He had been receiving treatment at home after being hospitalized in July. Bhattacharjee is survived by his wife and daughter.

He served as the Chief Minister of West Bengal from 2000 to 2011 and was a prominent member of the CPI (M) Politburo. Bhattacharjee stepped away from public life in recent years due to his declining health, resigning from key positions in the CPI (M) and leaving the state secretariat.

Born on March 1, 1944, in North Kolkata, he was educated in Bengali literature at Presidency College and later joined the CPI (M), rising through its ranks.

BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari wrote, "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"