Congress President Sonia Gandhi condoled the passing away of senior Congress leader JB Patnaik. "Having served as the Chief Minister of Odisha thrice, a Union Minister and as a Governor, Shri Patnaik's public life spread over decades in service of people," the message read.

Extending her condolences to the family and friends of Patnaik, Sonia said that he remained a Congressman till the end and his absence will be felt in the years to come.