Health Minister Das, who sustained injuries after being shot at by an Assistant Sub-Inspector of Police (ASI) in Jharsuguda district, passed away while undergoing treatment at a private hospital here this evening.
In a statement, the Chief Minister said, "I am shocked and distressed over the very unfortunate demise of Minister Sri Naba Das. The doctors made every possible effort to save his life. But unfortunately, he could not recover," the Chief Minister said.
Describing the late minister an asset for the government and the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), Patnaik said that Das carried out several initiatives to benefit the people.
"As a leader, he was instrumental in strengthening Biju Janata Dal. He was a grass root person and was loved and respected by all, cutting across parties and sections of people," he said.
"His death is a great loss to the State of Odisha," the Chief Minister added.
Patnaik also prayed for peace and tranquility of the departed soul and expressed deep sympathy for the bereaved family members.
Earlier, the Chief Minister reached the hospital and enquired about the health of the minister who was attended by the specialists.
Patnaik condemned the attack on the minister.
The Chief Minister also directed the Crime Branch to take up the investigation into the matter, following which a team of Odisha Crime Branch headed by a senior police official proceeded to Brajarajnagar where state Health Minister Naba Das was shot at.
The team led by Additional Director General Arun Bothra left for the crime spot to inquire into the firing incident on Minister Das.
Meanwhile, the accused ASI was taken into custody and interrogation was on to ascertain the motive behind the crime, police said.
