Kolkata: Former Bengal chief minister and veteran communist party leader Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee passed away at 80 at his residence in Kolkata's Ballygunge. His Suchetan Bhattacharjee confirmed the death on Thursday, The Wire reported.
The former CM was suffering from lung disease and was homebound for the last few years.
In Bengal, where the Left Front ruled for 34 years, Bhattacharjee was the chief minister for 11 years. His term was marked by his efforts for industrialization and cultural upheaval.
Bhattacharjee had long since been suffering from lung diseases and had been largely homebound in the last few years. He was survived by his wife, Mira, and daughter Suchetana.
Extending her condolences to the family of the late leader, Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee wrote on X, "Shocked and saddened by the sudden demise of the former Chief Minister Sri Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee. I have known him for the last several decades, and I visited him a few times when he was ill and effectively confined to home in the last few years. My very sincere condolences to Meeradi and Suchetan at this hour of grief. I communicate my condolences to the members of the CPI(M) party and all his followers. We have already taken a decision that we shall give him full respect and ceremonial honour during his last journey and rites."