Bhubaneswar: Former Minister and Kakatpur MLA Surendranath Naik, who passed away at his Bhubaneswar-based residence Thursday late night, was given guard of honour on Odisha Assembly premises on Friday.
Mortal remains of veteran the BJD leader were brought to the Odisha Assembly where many political leaders including Chief Minister Mohan Majhi, Deputy CMs Pravati Parida and KV Singh Deo paid their tribute to the departed soul.
Later, his mortal remains were carried to Sankha Bhawan where BJD leaders paid last respect to the departed soul. His body was taken to his village before his last rites were performed.
A seven-time MLA from Kakatpur, Naik had been experiencing old-age-related ailment for quite some time. Apart from being an MLA, he was chairman of Astarang Panchayat Samiti from 1960 to 1967.
According to sources, it was former Chief Minister Biju Patnaik who inspired Naik to join politics. Naik’s political journey began early as he was active in politics since his student days. It helped him shape his future as a seasoned politician and leader in Odisha.
Naik was arrested in 1968 for protesting a bus fare hike and again in 1975 under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA).
