Former West Bengal CM Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee Passes Away: All About His Family

Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, the former Chief Minister of West Bengal, passed away at his residence in Kolkata on August 8 at the age of 80. He had reportedly been unwell for a few days due to respiratory problems and had been hospitalised several times. In 2023, Bhattacharjee had also been put on life support after he contracted pneumonia. He wished for his organs to be donated after his passing, according to reports. Bhattacharjee, an alumnus of Presidency College, Kolkata, was an educator before turning to politics.

Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee No More

The leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) - CPM - served as the CM of West Bengal from 2000 to 2011. His body will be kept in the CPM headquarters for his followers to pay respects and the last journey will take place on August 9.

West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose paid condolence to his family. Incumbent Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed,  "I am very upset. My condolences to Meera di, Suchetan and to all supporters of CPM. We have already taken a decision that we shall give him full respect and ceremonial honour during his last journey and rites." CPM General Secretary Sitaram Yechury described the news of Mr Bhattacharjee's death as "shattering".

Comrade Buddhadeb Amar Rahe!

It is with deep sorrow that we inform of the death of outstanding communist leader, former Polit Bureau member and former Chief Minister of Bengal, comrade Buddhadeb Bhattacharya, at 8.20 AM this morning.

We dip the red flag in tribute. pic.twitter.com/6nvanh7bGr

— CPI (M) (@cpimspeak) August 8, 2024

Shattering news about Buddha da. The news reached me as I was having a cataract removed. His dedication to the party, West Bengal, our shared ideals and also his ability to look ahead will always function as a lodestar. pic.twitter.com/khSfw2aaMS

— Sitaram Yechury (@SitaramYechury) August 8, 2024

Shocked and saddened by the sudden demise of the former Chief Minister Sri Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee. I have been knowing him for last several decades, and visited him a few times when he was ill and effectively confined to home in the last few years.

My very sincere condolences…

— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) August 8, 2024

I am deeply saddened to learn that former West Bengal Chief Minister; Shri Buddhadeb Bhattacharya has left for his heavenly abode.
Condolences to his family members and admirers.
I pray that his soul finds eternal peace.
Om Shanti 🙏 pic.twitter.com/312uZBGFCV

— Suvendu Adhikari (@SuvenduWB) August 8, 2024

More About Bhattacharjee's Family

Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee is survived by his wife Meera and son Suchetan, who confirmed the news about the CPM leader's passing. Meera had been an influential part of Buddhadeb's political journey and supported him throughout his tenure as Chief Minister.

Buddhadeb's son Suchetan is reportedly an LGBTQIA+ activist. He earlier made headlines when he came out as transgender and underwent sex reassignment surgery. He revealed that his father knew about his orientation since childhood and had been supportive of his decision as well.