Former defence minister George Fernandes passed away on Tuesday following a prolonged illness. He was 88. Politicians condoled the demise of former union minister. While condoling his death Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, he was frank and fearless and never deviated from his ideology.
In a series of tweets, he said, “George Sahab” represented the best of India’s political leadership. “Frank and fearless, forthright and farsighted, he made a valuable contribution to our country. He was among the most effective voices for the rights of the poor and marginalised,” he said. The 88-year-old former defence minister died here after suffering from a prolonged illness. Modi said, “When we think of Fernandes, we remember most notably the fiery trade union leader who fought for justice, the leader who could humble the mightiest of politicians at the hustings”. “A visionary railway minister and a great defence minister who made India safe and strong. During his long years in public life, George Sahab never deviated from his political ideology. He resisted the Emergency tooth and nail. His simplicity and humility were noteworthy,” the PM said.
President Ram Nath Kovind expressed grief over the death of former Defence Minister George Fernandes. “Distressed to learn of the passing of George Fernandes, who served India in many capacities, including as Defence Minister. He epitomised simple living and high thinking. And was a champion of democracy, during the Emergency and beyond. We will all miss him,” tweeted President Kovind.
Congress President Rahul Gandhi while condoling his demise, said in a Facebook post, “I’m sorry to hear about the passing away of former Parliamentarian & Union Minister, George Fernandes Ji. My condolences to his family and friends in this time of grief.”
Congress’ chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala also condoled the demise of the former minister, “My condolences on the passing away of former Union Minister, Sh George Fernandes. May his soul rest in peace,” he tweeted.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also tweeted saying, “Very saddened at the passing away of former Defence Minister and much admired trade unionist, George Fernandes Ji. I have known him for decades. My condolences to his family and admirers.”
While condoling George Fernandes’ death, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar told ANI, “I offer my deepest condolences on passing away of former defence minister George Fernandes. He was a fiery trade union leader who fought for justice. May his soul rest in peace. My thoughts are with his family.”
Even Union Minister Nitin Gadkari told the news agency ANI, “I offer condolences at his passing away. He committed his life to the country. He fought for justice for trade unions. I considered him an icon.”
Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh while condoling the death of George Fernandes tweeted, “Deeply saddened by the passing away of India’s former Defence Minister George Fernandes ji. Today we have lost a stalwart of India’s socialist movement. He devoted his entire life for the welfare and uplift of the poor and marginalised. My heartfelt condolences to his family. George Fernandes ji served the nation in several capacities and held key portfolios like Defence and Railways at different times. He led many labour movements and fought against the injustice towards them. His tenure as Defence Minister was outstanding. May his soul rest in peace.”
(Inputs from Agencies)
