Former CPI(M) Rajya Sabha MP Chandrakala Pandey Passes Away at 83

Kolkata: Veteran CPI(M) leader and former Rajya Sabha MP Comrade Chandrakala Pandey passed away this afternoon at 2:30 PM in a government hospital in North Kolkata. She was 83. Her demise has cast a deep shadow of grief across the political spectrum. CPI(M) leaders paid tribute with a "Red Salute" and extended heartfelt condolences to her family, colleagues, and admirers.

Chandrakala Pandey had completed her post-graduation in Hindi from the University of Calcutta with distinction and later joined the same institution as a faculty member. Known for her calm demeanor, gentle nature, and cordial relations with both colleagues and students, she earned widespread respect in academic and political circles.

She was elected to the Rajya Sabha twice as a CPI(M) candidate nominated by the Left Front, beginning on 19 August 1993. She went on to serve continuously for 12 years, until 18 August 2005, discharging her responsibilities with integrity, competence, and dedication.

Her passing marks an irreparable loss for Left politics in West Bengal, colleagues and party members said in their tributes.