Former Member of Parliament and two-time MLA Dr. Narayan Sahu passed away on Friday afternoon at the age of 88 while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Bhubaneswar. He was suffering from age-related health issues.
According to family sources, his condition deteriorated four days ago, leading to his admission to the hospital. Doctors declared him dead on Friday afternoon.
Dr. Sahu hailed from Gehleikateni village under Parjang block in Dhenkanal district. He represented the Pallahara Assembly constituency as a Congress candidate for two terms between 1971 and 1977. Later, he was elected to the Lok Sabha from the Deogarh parliamentary constituency on an Indian National Congress ticket, serving from 1980 to 1984.
Known for his deep connect with the people, Dr. Sahu enjoyed significant popularity in both the Pallahara and Deogarh regions during his active political career. He retired from politics in 1984 and chose an unusual path by returning to academics in his later years.
At the age of 73, he completed his Post Graduation in Philosophy from Utkal University. Remarkably, at the age of 81, he pursued and successfully completed his Doctorate (PhD) in Philosophy from the same university, inspiring many with his dedication to lifelong learning. He also authored several books and novels.
His native area in Dhenkanal district, which now falls under the Parjang Assembly constituency, was earlier part of the Pallahara Assembly and Deogarh Lok Sabha segments.
Dr. Narayan Sahu is survived by four daughters and two sons.
**Condolences Pour In**
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep sorrow over the demise. In a statement in Odia, he said he was extremely saddened to hear about the passing of the senior leader, former MLA, and former MP. He extended condolences to the bereaved family and prayed to Lord Jagannath for the peace of the departed soul. “Om Shanti 🙏”
Former Chief Minister and current Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik also condoled the death. He noted that Dr. Sahu’s service to the people would always be remembered. He prayed for the eternal peace of his immortal soul and expressed sympathies to the grieving family.
Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee Chief Bhakta Charan Das said he was deeply saddened by the demise of the veteran Congress leader, former Deogarh MP, and Ex-Pallahara MLA Shri Narayan Sahu. “His service and contributions will always be remembered. Om Shanti.”
Dr. Sahu’s journey from grassroots politics to higher education in his twilight years stands as a testament to his commitment to both public service and personal growth, leaving a lasting impression on Odisha’s political and academic spheres.
