Bhubaneswar, Sept. 8 -- Four-time Nuapada MLA and senior Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader Rajendra Dholakia passed away on Monday while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Chennai. He was 68 and had been battling heart-related ailments.

Dholakia, who first entered the Odisha Legislative Assembly in 2004 as an Independent candidate, went on to win four terms from the Nuapada constituency-retaining the seat in 2009, 2019, and again in 2024 on the BJD ticket.

His demise has left a deep void in Odisha's political landscape, with leaders across party lines expressing grief and offering condolences.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said, "Deeply saddened to learn about the demise of MLA and former minister Rajendra Dholakia. I convey ...