Ex-Odisha MLA George Tirkey dies at 67

Noted commerce union chief and former Odisha MLA George Tirkey died early on Saturday (September 20, 2025), his household stated. He was 67.

Tirkey, who was present process therapy at a hospital right here for the final three months as a result of a number of well being points, died round 1 a.m.

His final rites will probably be carried out at his ancestral village Jhunmur, in Sundergarh district.

Tirkey was elected to the meeting 4 occasions –1995, 2000, 2009 and 2014 – from Biramitrapur meeting phase in Sundergarh district.

A preferred tribal chief, Tirkey was elected twice on a JMM ticket, and as soon as every as an Independent candidate and a nominee of Samata Kranti Dal, based by him.

His son Rohit Joseph Tirkey was elected to Biramitrapur meeting phase in 2024 on a BJD ticket.

Former Chief Minister and BJD president Naveen Patnaik expressed condolences over Tirkey’s demise. In a publish on X, he stated, “I’m deeply saddened to know concerning the demise of senior politician and former MLA of Sundergarh’s Biramitrapur, George Tirkey. His lifelong contribution to public service is unparalleled. His work for the welfare of the folks will at all times be remembered. I pray for everlasting peace to his departed soul and categorical my condolences to the bereaved members of the family,” he added.

Deputy Chief Minister Okay.V. Singh Deo stated, “Deeply saddened by the passing of George Tirkey ji, former MLA from Biramitrapur and a revered voice from Sundergarh. His many years of public service – throughout 4 phrases within the Odisha Assembly – mirrored a deep dedication to tribal rights, grassroots management, and principled politics. Odisha has misplaced a devoted son of the soil. May Mahaprabhu Shri Jagannath bless his soul and provides energy to his household and admirers on this hour of grief.”

Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) president Bhakta Charan Das additionally condoled Tirkey’s loss of life. “I’m saddened by the loss of life of George Tirkey and pray to the Almighty for peace to his soul. I convey my condolences to the bereaved household,” he added.