Damodar Rout, a stalwart of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and a seven-time MLA, passed away following prolonged kidney ailments on March 22.
He was 83 years old. Survived by a son and two daughters, Rout had been actively involved in politics since 1974, showcasing unwavering loyalty to the former Odisha Chief Minister and legendary Biju Patnaik and consistently participating in anti-Congress politics.
Throughout his political career, Rout served in various capacities, including the Panchayati Raj department, health, and agriculture, demonstrating profound expertise in the intricacies of the Panchayati Raj system.