As I pen down these words, my heart weighs heavy with grief. Surya Patro, a dear friend of mine for nearly half a century, has embarked on his final journey on the 2nd of September 2023. He was a stalwart in the political landscape of Odisha, a man of unshakable loyalty to the state’s undisputed leader, Biju Patnaik, and a friend whose absence will be profoundly felt. At the age of 74, Surya Patro has left us, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be etched in the annals of Odisha’s political history.
Surya Patro’s journey in politics was marked by dedication, unwavering loyalty, and a deep sense of commitment to the welfare of the people. His close association with Biju Patnaik was well-known, and he carried forward the torch of his leader’s vision with utmost sincerity.
A seven-time Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MLA, Surya Patro was an embodiment of electoral success. His remarkable streak began in 1990, and he remained undefeated on a BJD ticket from that year onwards. Affectionately known as “Anna” in Ganjam district, he embarked on his political journey in 1977 by contesting for a councillor’s post in the Berhampur Municipality.
His political career saw him representing the Mohana segment of Gajapati district in the Odisha Assembly in 1990. Later, when Mohana was designated as an ST-reserved constituency, Surya Patro transitioned to Digaphandi, securing victory once again under the Biju Janata Dal banner. His political prowess earned him a place in the cabinet of then-Chief Minister Biju Patnaik in 1990, and he continued to serve in various ministerial capacities under the leadership of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik from 2002 onwards.
Surya Patro’s diverse ministerial portfolios included fisheries, animal resources development, energy, science and technology, environment, tourism, information technology, revenue and disaster management, information and public relations, food and civil supplies, and consumer welfare. His dedication to public service was further demonstrated through his continuous representation of the Digapahandi constituency in the Odisha Assembly for three consecutive terms since 2009.
A defining moment in his career came when he assumed the prestigious position of the Odisha Assembly Speaker on June 1, 2019, a role he held until his resignation on June 4, 2022.
Surya Patro’s passing has left a void in the political landscape of Odisha. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik aptly described him as an able administrator and a skilled organizer, acknowledging the immense contributions of this political luminary. As we bid farewell to Surya Patro, we remember not only a formidable politician but also a cherished friend whose memory will endure through the ages.