Bhubaneswar, Mar 22 (Reporter) President Droupadi Murmu, Odisha Governor Raghubar Das, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, and several political leaders expressed profound grief over the passing away of veteran BJD leader Damodar Rout. Rout, a seven-time MLA who held several important portfolios in both the Biju Patnaik and Naveen Patnaik governments during his political career spanning over four decades, passed away on Friday morning while undergoing treatment following a massive cardiac arrest on March 18. President Droupadi Murmu conveyed her condolences, saying, "Saddened by the demise of veteran leader Shri Damodar Rout who served as a minister several times in the Odisha Government." She added that Rout's contributions to the progress of Odisha and the country will always be remembered, expressing her deepest condolences to his family members and followers. Odisha Governor Raghubar Das also expressed deep sorrow over Rout's death, stating, "I am saddened by the news of the demise of former minister and senior politician Damodar Rout," and extended condolences to the bereaved family and followers. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, in his social media post, X remarked that Rout's demise is an irreparable loss in Odisha politics and that his dedication to the service and development of the people will always be remembered. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said, "I am saddened to hear the news of the demise of former minister and senior leader Damodar Rout," highlighting Rout's long engagement in politics and public welfare work. Pradhan expressed his condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul. Several council members of the Naveen Patnaik government ,BJD leaders and leaders from other political parties in the state also expressed profound grief at the demise of Damodar Rout and paid tribute to his memory. Rout's body was taken from his official residence to the State Assembly and then to the Sankaha Bhawan, the party office of the ruling BJD, where Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and several BJD leaders offered floral tributes. Later, the body was taken to Ersama and Paradip to allow his followers and supporters to pay their last respects. Family sources stated that the body will be later taken to Swargadwar in Puri for the final rites...////...