Khallikote, Feb 10: V Sugnana Kumari Deo, an eminent leader of the BJD and a 10-time MLA, hailing from the esteemed royal lineage of Khallikote, breathed her last while under treatment at a private hospital in Chennai on Saturday. She was 87 years old.
Deo's political journey began with her election to the Odisha Assembly in 1963, marking the inception of a remarkable career that spanned over five decades. Representing Khallikote and Kabisuryanagar constituencies, she secured victory in ten successive elections. Her legacy as a scion of the Khallikote royal family added a unique dimension to her public service. Notably, she served as an MLA for eight terms from Khallikote and twice from Kabisuryanagar.
Soon after the news of her illness broke, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik had rushed to a private hospital in Chennai and inquired about her health condition on Friday. The political community in Odisha mourns her passing, extending heartfelt condolences.
Beyond her political career, Deo was recognized for her philanthropic endeavors. Born in Ganjam, she was the daughter of King R V M Miladri Deo, and married to Purnachandra Mardaraj Deo. Her parliamentary journey commenced in 1963 and continued through subsequent decades, with notable affiliations with the Congress, Utkal Congress, Janata Dal, and eventually the BJD.
Despite her tenures spanning various political parties and committees within the Odisha Legislative Assembly, Deo never pursued ministerial aspirations, prioritizing her role as a dedicated representative of the people.
