Odisha bid a solemn farewell to George Tirkey, one of the state’s most respected tribal leaders and a four-time Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), who passed away on Saturday at a private hospital in Bhubaneswar at the age of 67.
In a moving ceremony held at the Odisha Legislative Assembly premises, Tirkey was accorded a Guard of Honour, recognizing his decades of service to tribal communities and his fearless political journey. His mortal remains were placed for public viewing, where leaders across party lines gathered to pay their final respects.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, along with Deputy Chief Ministers Pravati Parida and KV Singh Deo, Speaker Surama Padhy, and other Assembly members, attended the tribute and offered their condolences. The gathering reflected the deep respect Tirkey commanded across the political spectrum.
🧭 A Life of Service and Defiance
George Tirkey’s political career was marked by his independent spirit and unwavering commitment to tribal rights. He was elected to the Odisha Assembly four times:
- 1995 & 2000: Representing Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)
- 2009: As an Independent
- 2014: With Samata Kranti Dal, a party he helped shape
Known for his grassroots organizing and principled leadership, Tirkey championed issues of land, livelihood, and indigenous identity. His legacy continues through his son, Rohit Tirkey, currently an MLA from Biramitrapur on a BJD ticket.
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