Former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh passed away early on Thursday mornings after battling post COVID-19 complications. The 87-year-old Congress leader had been admitted to the hospital on April 30.
"He was under constant monitoring of our doctors' team. His condition deteriorated two days back and at around 4 am when he breathed his lasts," Dr Janak Raj, Medical Superintendent of Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital in Shimla told news agency ANI. He had reportedly been on the ventilator for the past two days.
The news has evoked an outpouring of grief, with condolence messages taking over Twitter. Politicians from across party lines took to social media platforms mourning his demise on Thursday morning.
"Shri Virbhadra Singh Ji had a long political career, with rich administrative and legislative experience. He played a pivotal role in Himachal Pradesh and served the people of the state. Saddened by his demise. Condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti," tweeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
"Saddened to learn about the demise of Former Himachal Pradesh CM Virbhadra Singh Ji. He will be always remembered for his service to the nation. My heartfelt condolences to his family members and followers. Om Shanti!" tweeted Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.
"Saddened to learn about the demise of Shri Virbhadra Singh, veteran Congress leader and former CM of Himachal Pradesh. His popularity and acceptance among the people of Himachal was unmatched. My deepest condolences to his family and friends," added newly appointed Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Numerous others including Congress leaders have also taken to Twitter to express their sadness. "An able administrator and a gentleman who was loved by the people, he was not just an elder brother but also a mentor to many to us," summed up Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh.
