Former Biramitrapur MLA and tribal leader George Tirkey passes away at 67

Bhubaneswar, Sept 20: Veteran tribal leader and four-time MLA George Tirkey passed away on Saturday at the age of 67, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering service to Odisha’s labour and tribal communities. His son confirmed the news of his demise.

Tirkey had been ailing for several months and was undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Bhubaneswar, where he breathed his last. His last rites will be performed at his ancestral village Jhunmur in Sundargarh district.

Tirkey was one of the most prominent tribal leaders of western Odisha. He represented the Biramitrapur constituency in the Odisha Legislative Assembly four times — in 1995, 2000, 2009, and 2014. Known for his independent political approach, he contested elections under different banners, including the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), Samata Kranti Dal, and also as an independent candidate.

His passing has triggered an outpouring of grief across political and social circles. Leaders cutting across party lines and community members have expressed deep condolences, remembering him as a powerful voice for workers’ rights and tribal welfare in Odisha.