Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar died at his private residence near here Sunday. He was 63. Parrikar is survived by two sons and their families. Parrikar had been unwell since February 2018 when he was diagnosed with a pancreatic ailment.
The BJP stalwart’s health, which has been fluctuating for a year, took a turn for the worse in the past two days.
In a tweet, President Ram Nath Kovind said, “Extremely sorry to hear of the passing of Shri Manohar Parrikar, chief minister of Goa, after an illness borne with fortitude and dignity. “An epitome of integrity and dedication in public life, his service to the people of Goa and India will not be forgotten,” the President tweeted from his official handle. Sources said former defence minister Parrikar had been on life support system since late Saturday night.
Earlier in the day, BJP core committee leader Dayanand Mandrekar had said Parrikar’s health had deteriorated and the party may appoint a new leader soon to succeed Parrikar. “Had Manohar Parrikar been fit, there would not have been a need to change the leader but his health is very critical now, deteriorating day after day. Party should take some decision. From centre to Goa, some decision should be taken. I think it will be done,” Mandrekar had told ANI.
Deputy Speaker and Calangute BJP MLA Michael Lobo had also stated Parrikar was “very ill,” and there were “no chances of him getting well.” Parrikar, who was suffering from a pancreatic ailment, has been in and out of hospitals in Goa, Mumbai, Delhi and New York since February last year.
With ANI inputs