New Delhi: President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday condoled the death of his predecessor Pranab Mukherjee saying his demise is the passing of an era and the nation mourns losing one of its worthiest sons.
“Sad to hear that former President Shri Pranab Mukherjee is no more. His demise is passing of an era. A colossus in public life, he served Mother India with the spirit of a sage. The nation mourns losing one of its worthiest sons. Condolences to his family, friends & all citizens,” Kovind said on Twitter.
Mukherjee, 84, died on Monday in an army hospital here, his son Abhijit said. He was admitted to the hospital on August 10.
Mukherjee was the 13th President of India from 2012 to 2017.
Expressing grief over Pranab Mukherjee’s demise, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday described him as a scholar par excellence and a towering statesman who was admired across the political spectrum.
Modi said Mukherjee has left an indelible mark on the nation’s development trajectory.
In a series of tweets, the prime minister said Mukherjee in his decades-long political journey made long-lasting contributions in key economic and strategic ministries and that he was an outstanding parliamentarian, always well-prepared, extremely articulate as well as witty.
The prime minister recalled that Mukherjee, as the then President when he became prime minister for the first time, always supported and guided him.
“I was new to Delhi in 2014. From Day 1, I was blessed to have the guidance, support and blessings of Shri Pranab Mukherjee. I will always cherish my interactions with him. Condolences to his family, friends, admirers and supporters across India. Om Shanti,” Modi said.
In his tweets, Modi also posted his pictures with Mukherjee, including one in which he is seen touching the then president’s feet.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah said Mukherjee’s life will always be cherished for his impeccable service and indelible contribution to the motherland.
“Deeply anguished on the passing away of former President of India, Bharat Ratna Shri Pranab Mukherjee ji. He was a vastly experienced leader who served the nation with utmost devotion. Pranab da’s distinguished career is a matter of great pride for the entire country,” Shah tweeted.
“His demise has left a huge void in Indian polity. My sincerest condolences are with his family and followers on this irreparable loss. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti,” the minister said.
“With great sadness, the nation receives the news of the unfortunate demise of our former President Shri Pranab Mukherjee,” Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said on Twitter.
“I join the country in paying homage to him. My deepest condolences to the bereaved family and friends,” he said.
