Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi led the state in paying rich tributes to former Chief Minister Janaki Ballabh Patnaik on his 99th birth anniversary on Saturday.
Janaki Ballabh Patnaik, widely known as JB, held the office of Chief Minister for two significant terms – from 1980 to 1989 and again from 1995 to 1999. Beyond his tenure in Odisha, he also served as the Governor of Assam between 2009 and 2014.
Taking to social media today, Kambhampati said, “On the occasion of the birth anniversary of Odisha’s former chief minister, the late Janaki Ballabh Pattnaik, a heartfelt tribute of devotion.”
Majhi in a post on X said, “On the occasion of the birth anniversary of the late Janaki Ballabh Pattnaik, former chief minister of Odisha, former Governor of Assam, and eminent literary practitioner, devout homage.”
Former Chief Minister and BJD President Naveen Patnaik also remembered the late leader, emphasising his role in steering Odisha toward progress. “His contributions to advancing Odisha on the path of development as well as to the welfare of the people will always be remembered,” the BJD leader wrote in an X post.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan echoed similar sentiments in his memorial message. “Tribute on the birth anniversary of late Janaki Ballabh Patnaik, former Chief Minister of Odisha and Governor of Assam,” the Union Minister said in a social media post.
At Congress Bhawan, senior leaders of the party held a memorial meeting where they garlanded theportrait of the veteran politician.
Former OPCC President Niranjan Patnaik hailed JB as “one of the architects of modern Odisha,” praising his intellectual legacy, administrative skill, and profound commitment to literature and democratic values.
“His vision, administrative acumen, and deep commitment to democratic values shaped the state. His intellectual legacy and contribution to literature and public life remain inspiring,” he said.
