Bhubaneswar, August 19: Hemant Mohapatra, popularly known as Kunei Mohapatra, a social worker and leader of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) from Jatni, passed away on Tuesday evening in Bhubaneswar. He was 61 years old.
According to sources, Mohapatra complained of severe chest pain in the evening and was immediately rushed to a private hospital in the city. Despite efforts by doctors, he succumbed to a massive heart attack. His sudden demise has cast a deep pall of gloom across Jatni and the surrounding areas.
For over three decades, Kunei Mohapatra was a familiar face in the Jatni constituency of Khurda district. Known for his commitment to social service, he dedicated his life to assisting the poor, the downtrodden, and those in need of healthcare and other essential support.
Though he was actively associated with the Biju Janata Dal, working closely with Khurda district BJD president and Jatni MLA Bibhuti Bhushan Balabantray, Mohapatra was widely regarded as more than just a political worker. He was considered a bridge between the party and the people, tirelessly serving the community in multiple ways.
Expressing profound grief over the untimely loss, Jatni MLA Bibhuti Bhushan Balabantray said, “Kunei was one of my most trusted lieutenants. For more than two decades, he stood by me, assisting not only in political work but also in countless social initiatives. His demise is an irreparable loss for me personally and for the people of Jatni. May the Almighty grant eternal peace to his noble soul.”
Ananta Narayan Jena, MLA, Bhubaneswar Madhy, also paid a visit to Mohapatra to offer condolences and stand in solidarity with the bereaved family. Leaders, party workers across the party line, and well-wishers have been thronging his village, Kudiary, since the news broke, with hundreds paying their last respects.
The news of his passing has left his native village, Kudiary, and the entire Jatni region enveloped in sorrow. Locals recall him as a selfless social worker who never hesitated to extend a helping hand, irrespective of political affiliations.
With the demise of Kunei Mohapatra, Jatni has lost a good social worker whose compassion and service touched countless lives.
