Chief Ministers of Eastern States Mourn the Passing of Ratan Tata, Industry Icon

On Wednesday evening, the chief ministers of West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Odisha expressed their condolences following the death of Ratan Tata, the Tata Group's chairman emeritus. The 86-year-old industrialist passed away at Breach Candy Hospital in south Mumbai at 11:30 pm. He had been hospitalised for several days prior to his death, according to a senior police officer.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee shared her sorrow on X, stating, "Saddened by the demise of Ratan Tata, Chairman Emeritus of the Tata Sons. The former Chairman of Tata Group had been a foremost leader of Indian industries and a public-spirited philanthropist. His demise will be an irreparable loss for Indian business world and society. My condolences to all his family members and colleagues."

Legacy in West Bengal

In 2008, the Tata Group decided to relocate its Nano factory from Singur in West Bengal's Hooghly district due to a land acquisition dispute. At that time, Banerjee's TMC was in opposition and led protests against the ruling Left Front, accusing it of forcibly acquiring land from farmers for the project.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren also expressed his shock over Tata's passing on X. He wrote, "I can't believe it.... May the soul of Marang Buru Ratan Tata ji rest in peace." Tata Steel had established India's first industrial city in Jamshedpur, which was part of undivided Bihar before becoming part of Jharkhand.

Influence in Jharkhand and Odisha

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi described Tata as an industry legend and a true national icon in his condolence message. He said, "Deeply saddened by the passing of Ratan Tata Ji... His visionary leadership, unwavering commitment to ethics and immense contributions to India's growth will inspire generations to come. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. His legacy will live on forever."

Odisha Governor Raghubar Das, who previously served as Jharkhand's chief minister, also mourned Tata's death. On X, he stated, "Hon’ble Governor, Shri@dasraghubar, is saddened to learn about the demise of Tata Sons Chairman Emeritus, veteran industrialist Padma Vibhusan @RNTata2000 ji and conveyed his heartfelt condolence to the bereaved family members. Om Shanti."

The impact of Ratan Tata's contributions to Indian industry and society is profound. His leadership and philanthropic efforts have left an indelible mark on many sectors. As leaders across states express their grief, they highlight how his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.