George Tirkey, one of the prominent tribal faces of Odisha politics and four-time MLA, passed away at a private hospital in Bhubaneswar following a prolonged illness. He was 67.
Tirkey, a veteran politician who championed the cause and rights of tribal people, had carved out a niche for himself through his fight to safeguard tribal land rights and lead anti-displacement movements triggered by mining and industrial activities across the state, particularly in Sundargarh district.
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The Odisha Legislative Assembly paid homage to Tirkey, with members across party lines expressing grief over his untimely death and describing him as a firebrand politician who fought for the larger interest of marginalized sections of the society.
Chief Minister Mohan Majhi expressed his condolences, calling Tirkey a "popular leader and grass root politician" who remained connected to the struggles of the people.
Former Chief Minister and BJD president Naveen Patnaik also condoled the veteran leader's demise.
Tirkey began his political career with the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), winning two Assembly elections on its ticket. He later contested and won as an Independent and as a nominee of the Samata Kranti Dal, a party he had founded.
In 2024, due to health concerns, Tirkey withdrew from active politics. His son, Rohit Joseph Tirkey, carried forward the political legacy and was elected to the Assembly from Sundargarh on a BJD ticket.
Tirkey contested twice for the Lok Sabha polls from Sundargarh district, but was unsuccessful in both attempts.