Samajwadi Party supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav passed away today following a prolonged illness. He was 82.
He had been undergoing treatment at a Gurugram hospital since August this year. Several politicians, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and others, condoled the death of the veteran politician.
Speaking at a gathering in Gujarat, PM Modi recalled his association with Mulayam Singh Yadav who passed away earlier today. He said, "Mulayam Singh Yadav ji's demise is a huge loss for the nation. I had a special relationship with him. When BJP declared me as PM candidate in 2014, I spoke to all opposition leaders. He gave me his blessings in the way of his advice which has stayed with me even today."
PM Modi expressed his anguish and tweeted that Mulayam Singh Yadav was a key soldier for democracy during the Emergency. He added that the former UP CM served the people diligently.
"Mulayam Singh Yadav Ji distinguished himself in UP and national politics. He was a key soldier for democracy during the Emergency. As Defence Minister, he worked for a stronger India. His Parliamentary interventions were insightful and emphasised on furthering national interest," said PM Modi.
President Draupadi Murmu expressed her condolences to Yadav's family and followers.
President Murmu said, "The death of Shri Mulayam Singh Yadav is an irreparable loss to the country. The achievements of Mulayam Singh Yadav ji, who came from an ordinary environment, were extraordinary. 'Dharti Putra' Mulayam ji was a veteran leader associated with the land. He was respected by people of all parties. My deepest condolences to his family members and supporters!"
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh wrote, "Shri Mulayam Singh Yadav ji was a grassroots leader who played a prominent role in the politics of Uttar Pradesh for many decades. In his long public life, he worked in many positions and contributed to the development of the country, society and the state. His death is very painful."
"Despite being hostile in politics, Mulayam Singh ji had the best relations. Whenever he met him, he would talk about many subjects with a very open mind. Interactions with him on many occasions will always be fresh in my memory. My condolences to his family and supporters in this hour of grief," he added.
"Received the sad news of demise of former Chief Minister of UP and Samajwadi Party leader Mulayam Singh Yadav. May almighty rest his soul at his feet and give strength to his family and admirers to bear the loss," Kejriwal said in a tweet.
