Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, a veteran Left leader and former Chief Minister of West Bengal, passed away at his residence in Kolkata on Thursday. He was 80 years old.
Bhattacharjee, a prominent figure in West Bengal politics, served as the state’s Chief Minister from November 2000 to May 2011. He was known for his leadership during a period of significant industrial development in the state, particularly in the IT sector. However, his tenure also saw a rise in political violence and the Nandigram and Singur land acquisition protests.
In recent years, Bhattacharjee had been battling chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and had largely withdrawn from public life. He resided in a modest two-room government apartment in the Ballygunge area of south Kolkata.
Bhattacharjee is survived by his wife, Mira, and daughter Suchetana. His passing marks the end of an era in West Bengal politics, leaving behind a legacy of both achievements and controversies.
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