Rabi Ray

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Portrait of Rabi Ray

Rabi Ray (26 November 1926 – 6 March 2017) was an eminent Indian politician and socialist leader, known for his tenure as the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, the lower house of India's Parliament. Born in the Bhanragarh village of the Odisha state, Ray was a prominent figure in Indian politics, advocating for social justice and democracy throughout his career.

Early Life and Education

Rabi Ray was born into a middle-class family in Odisha. He pursued his higher education in Political Science and Law, which laid the foundation for his political career. Ray was deeply influenced by the principles of Mahatma Gandhi and Jayaprakash Narayan, leading him to actively participate in the Indian independence movement and later in the socialist movement within India.

Political Career

Ray's political career began in earnest in the post-independence era. He was a member of the Socialist Party of India and played a significant role in the socialist movement in the country. His dedication and work led him to be elected to the Lok Sabha from the Puri constituency of Odisha in 1967.

In 1989, Rabi Ray was elected as the Speaker of the 9th Lok Sabha, a position he held with distinction until 1991. During his tenure as Speaker, Ray was praised for his impartiality and efforts to uphold the dignity and decorum of the Parliament. He was known for his firm stance on maintaining discipline among the members of the Parliament and for his contributions towards the enhancement of the parliamentary democracy in India.

Contributions and Legacy

Rabi Ray's contributions to Indian politics and society were manifold. Apart from his role in the Parliament, he was actively involved in promoting education and healthcare in rural areas. Ray was a staunch advocate for the rights of the underprivileged and worked tirelessly towards the empowerment of the marginalized sections of society.

After retiring from active politics, Ray continued to be involved in social work and public service. He was associated with several educational and healthcare initiatives, reflecting his commitment to social causes.

Death and Tributes

Rabi Ray passed away on 6 March 2017, leaving behind a legacy of political integrity and social activism. His death was mourned by many across the country, including political leaders, social activists, and the general public. Tributes poured in from all quarters, recognizing his contributions to Indian politics and society.

See Also

• Lok Sabha
• Socialist Party (India)
• Indian independence movement
• Parliament of India