Bhubaneswar: Former Sambalpur MLA and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader Dr. Raseswari Panigrahi passed away on Monday evening at her residence in the Shanti Nagar area of Sambalpur district. She was 79.
Panigrahi, who had been battling serious neurological complications for the past three years, breathed her last at 8:50 pm. Her condition had reportedly deteriorated since Sunday evening.
According to her attending physician, Dr. Kabir Das Purohit, she had expressed a firm wish not to undergo aggressive medical interventions, including hospitalisation and life-support measures such as ventilator assistance.
“She was mentally alert until yesterday evening. Her passing is a deeply sad moment for all of us,” Dr Purohit said.
Elected to the Odisha Legislative Assembly from the Sambalpur constituency in 2014 on a BJD ticket, Panigrahi entered politics after a long and distinguished career in the medical field.
An accomplished gynaecologist, she completed her MBBS from the Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR), Burla, and joined government service in 1972. She initially served as a specialist at the District Headquarters Hospital in Sundargarh before progressing to a professorship at a medical college, contributing significantly to healthcare and medical education until her retirement.
Widely respected in Western Odisha, Panigrahi earned a reputation for her professional excellence and compassionate service, often providing free treatment to underprivileged patients. Her contributions extended beyond the state, earning recognition in neighbouring regions.
Her demise marks the loss of a prominent political figure and a distinguished medical professional. Tributes have poured in from political leaders, colleagues, and patients, who remember her for her dedication to public service and the welfare of the community.
