TNI Bureau: Former Nilgiri MLA and senior Congress leader Akshaya Acharya (78) passed away at his residence in Kahalia after a prolonged battle with cancer. He had been suffering from the disease for a long time and was undergoing treatment. His demise has caused widespread grief across Odisha.

Akshaya Acharya represented the Nilgiri Assembly constituency twice as a Congress candidate—first from 1980 to 1985 and again from 1995 to 2000. During his tenure in the Odisha Legislative Assembly, he was known for his commitment to public service and sustained efforts for the development of Nilgiri and surrounding areas.

A respected grassroots leader, Acharya remained actively involved in community welfare and local governance throughout his political career. He was regarded as a stalwart of the Congress party in the region.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep sorrow over the demise of the former MLA and extended condolences to the bereaved family. Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik also mourned the loss, remembering Acharya as a dedicated public servant.

Several senior leaders across party lines condoled his death, including BJD Rajya Sabha MP Manas Ranjan Mangaraj, OPCC President Bhakta Charan Das, Koraput MP Saptagiri Ulaka, Congress in-charge of Odisha Ajay Kumar Lallu, former OPCC President Niranjan Patnaik, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, and Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo.

The passing of Akshaya Acharya is being widely mourned across the state, with political leaders, supporters, and locals remembering his contributions to public life and his lasting impact on Nilgiri.