A large number of mourners gathered at Shanti Nagar in Sambalpur as the final journey of former MLA and eminent gynaecologist Dr. Raseswari Panigrahi began on Tuesday. Her flower-decorated cortege moved towards Rajghat cremation ground in a solemn atmosphere, with people from different walks of life paying tribute to the respected leader and doctor.
Senior officials, including the District Collector, senior police officers, politicians, members of the medical fraternity, academicians, students, and residents from across Western Odisha attended the funeral procession to offer their last respects. Her demise has left a deep void in Odisha’s political, medical, and social service spheres.
Dr. Panigrahi passed away at the age of 79 at her residence after battling Motor Neuron Disease. Family sources said her condition had deteriorated in the final hours, and she stopped responding to treatment.
Before entering politics, she had a distinguished career in medicine. A graduate of VIMSAR, Burla, she joined government service in 1972 as a gynaecology specialist and served in various healthcare institutions, including the District Headquarters Hospital in Sundargarh. Known for her compassion, she also provided free treatment to underprivileged patients, earning widespread respect.
She later entered politics and represented the Sambalpur Assembly constituency in 2014. Her dedication to public service, both as a doctor and a legislator, earned her admiration across the region.
