Srinagar Former president Pranab Mukherjee, one of India’s most cerebral and respected politicians, died on Monday evening following a 21-day battle with multiple ailments. He was 84.
Mukherjee, who was admitted to the Army’s Research and Referral Hospital on August 10 and was operated for a removal of a clot in the brain the same day, is survived by two sons and a daughter.
Popularly known as Pranab Da, the long-time Congress leader and seven-time parliamentarian had tested positive for COVID-19 at the time of his admission and was being treated for a lung infection. He had suffered a septic shock on Sunday due to it. Doctors said he died of a cardiac arrest at 4.30 pm.
His son Abhijit Mukherjee was the first to break the news of the death of the veteran politician.
“With a Heavy Heart, this is to inform you that my father Shri Pranab Mukherjee has just passed away inspite of the best efforts of Doctors of RR Hospital and prayers, duas and prarthanas from people throughout India! I thank all of You,” he said on Twitter.
As condolences poured in for India’s 13th president, who served as the country’s first citizen from 2012 to 2017, President Ram Nath Kovind described Mukherjee’s demise as the 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.
Expressing his condolences, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described him as a scholar par excellence and a towering statesman who was admired across the political spectrum.
“India grieves the passing away of Bharat Ratna Shri Pranab Mukherjee. He has left an indelible mark on the development trajectory of our nation. A scholar par excellence, a towering statesman, he was admired across the political spectrum and by all sections of society,” Modi tweeted.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said, “With great sadness, the nation receives the news of the unfortunate demise of our former President Shri Pranab Mukherjee.”
“I join the country in paying homage to him. My deepest condolences to the bereaved family and friends,” he said.
J&K Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha also conveyed his heartfelt condolences on the sad demise of Mukherjee.
Describing him as a statesman par excellence and a wonderful human-being, the Lt Governor observed that the former President will always be remembered as an astute administrator who created benchmarks with his high standard of work.
Pranab Mukherjee was an inspirational figure and his great services to the nation can never be forgotten. His demise is a huge loss to the nation, he added.
In his message, the Lt Governor extended sincere condolences to the bereaved family members and well-wishers and prayed for the eternal peace to the departed soul.
Seven-day mourning announced in J&K
Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir government today announced seven-day (31-08-2020 to 6-09-2020) mourning as a mark of respect to Former President of India, Pranab Mukherjee who passed away today on 31st August 2020.
The National flag shall fly at half-mast during the mourning period on all buildings and places throughout the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir where it is flown regularly and there will be no official entertainment.
