Senior Congress Leader and Former Union Minister Kanhu Charan Lenka Dies at 86
In a somber development from Bhubaneswar, former Union minister of state and senior Congress leader Kanhu Charan Lenka passed away on Friday at the age of 86. Lenka, who held significant portfolios in the PV Narasimha Rao government, was a prominent figure in Odisha politics with a distinguished public service career spanning over four decades.
Early Life and Political Beginnings
Born on March 2, 1939, in the Cuttack district of Odisha, Kanhu Charan Lenka hailed from a modest background. His entry into public life was marked by grassroots political work, as he joined the Congress Seva Dal in 1957, laying the foundation for a remarkable political journey.
Rise in State and National Politics
Lenka quickly ascended through the ranks of the Congress party, emerging as a key organizer and influential leader in Odisha. He was elected to the Odisha Legislative Assembly from the Choudwar constituency four times—in 1971, 1974, 1980, and 1995—and also served as a state minister during his tenure. Known for his unwavering loyalty to the Congress leadership, he stood firmly with former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi during turbulent periods, including internal party splits.
His transition to national politics was marked by his election to the Rajya Sabha, where he served from 1988 to 1994. This period coincided with India's pivotal economic transition in the early 1990s. During this time, Lenka held dual portfolios as minister of state for railways and minister of state for agriculture in the Narasimha Rao council of ministers, playing a role in key policy decisions.
Final Days and Condolences
Regarded as one of Odisha's seasoned parliamentarians, Kanhu Charan Lenka died at a private hospital in Bhubaneswar due to age-related complications. He is survived by his wife, Bijaya Laxmi Lenka, a son, and a daughter.
The news of his passing has elicited widespread grief from political leaders across party lines. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep sadness on social media platform X, stating, "I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of senior leader, former Union Minister and former Member of Parliament Kanhu Charan Lenka. I convey my condolences to the bereaved family during this hour of grief and pray to Lord Shri Jagannath for the peaceful repose of the departed soul."
Other notable figures who condoled his death include Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, former Chief Minister and BJD president Naveen Patnaik, and Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee president Bhakta Charan Das. Their tributes highlight Lenka's enduring legacy and contributions to Indian politics.
