West Bengal: Mamata Banerjee's Arch Rival, Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, Passes Away After Chronic Illness

Former West Bengal Chief Minister and veteran leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee passed away at 8:20 am on Thursday (8 August) at his residence on Palm Avenue in Kolkata.

Bhattacharjee, who had been battling chronic obstructive pulmonary disease for several years, was 80 years old. He is survived by his wife, Mira, and daughter, Suchetana.

In 2000, he succeeded Jyoti Basu, who stepped down due to health reasons, becoming the chief minister. Under his leadership, the Left Front secured consecutive victories in the assembly elections of 2001 and 2006.

In 2011, Mamata Banerjee was able to unseat him, riding on the wave of the Nandigram movement against Tata's Nano plans, and has been in power continuously since then.

On Wednesday night, Buddhadeb's breathing difficulties worsened significantly. Plans were made for doctors from Woodlands to examine him by 11 am on Thursday and admit him to the hospital if necessary.

However, Indian Express sources reported that his condition deteriorated further in the morning, and he passed away before he could be hospitalised.

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma called him a "stalwart in public service" and praised his extensive experience of over five decades in politics, simplicity and rich contributions to Bengali literature.

Similarly, Arunachal CM Pema Khandu said, "Renowned for his humility, significant contributions to Bengali literature, and unwavering dedication to public service, he will be deeply missed."