In a poignant display of respect, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi visited the residence of deceased Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Sanchita Mohanty in Bhubaneswar on Friday to offer floral tributes.
Sanchita Mohanty, a senior BJP figure and former Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from the Korei constituency in Jajpur district, passed away at her home earlier that day at the age of 67.
Family sources revealed that she had been diagnosed with cancer just a week prior and had attended her grandson’s birthday celebration the night before, only to collapse suddenly around 7:40 a.m. on Friday. Despite her brief illness, Mohanty’s death has sent shockwaves through Odisha’s political circles, with tributes pouring in from across the spectrum.
Mohanty made history in 2004 by becoming the first BJP MLA from Jajpur district. Her victory that year was particularly notable, as she defeated heavyweight opponent Ashok Das by a commanding 15.6% margin, reshaping the region’s political landscape during her term from 2004 to 2009. Known for her dedication to grassroots politics and public service, Mohanty was remembered as a committed leader who strengthened the BJP’s presence in Odisha.
Chief Minister Majhi’s visit underscored the official condolences, with the CM expressing deep sorrow over the loss. Other prominent figures joined in mourning, including Odisha Assembly Speaker Surama Padhy, Leader of Opposition and former CM Naveen Patnaik, and several ministers and MLAs.
The demise has prompted widespread condolences on social media and news platforms, with many emphasizing Mohanty’s contributions to Odisha’s development and her trailblazing spirit in a male-dominated political arena.
Funeral arrangements are underway, with family and party members gathering to honor her memory. Mohanty is survived by her family, including her grandson, whose recent birthday marked one of her final joyful moments. The BJP has announced a period of mourning, and flags at party offices across Odisha are flying at half-mast.
