Condolences pour in from all quarters over sad demise of Parrikar

Condolences began pouring in from all quarters moment after the news of sad demise of Goa Chief Minister and former Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar was shared with the nation on late Sunday evening by President Ram Nath Kovind.

President Kovind tweeted: "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 of India will not be forgotten."

"Shri Manohar Parrikar is no more. A sincere, honest and sensitive political activist. Was simple and down to earth, I learnt a lot from Shri Parrikar. As Raksha Mantri his contribution to making the armed forces a modernised, lean and mean fighting machine will remain unparalleled," tweeted Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh also recalled the honesty and integrity of the late Goa Chief Minister while expressing his condolence.

"Deeply saddened and pained by the demise of my dear friend and Chief Minister of Goa, Shri Manohar Parrikar. He was known for his honesty, integrity and simplicity. He served the nation and the state of Goa with great diligence. My heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family," he said.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi also called him one of Goa's favourite sons and wrote, "I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Goa CM, Shri Manohar Parrikar Ji, who bravely battled a debilitating illness for over a year. Respected and admired across party lines, he was one of Goa's favourite sons. My condolences to his family in this time of grief."

Congress general secretary, Priyanka Gandhi recalled her only meet with Parrikar while expressing her condolence.

"My condolences to the bereaved family of Shri Manohar Parrikar. I met him only once when he graciously visited my mother at the hospital two years ago. May his soul rest in peace," she said.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also expressed grief over the death of Goa Chief Minister and said, "Saddened at the passing away of Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar ji. He patiently endured his illness. Condolences to his family and his admirers."

Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, 63, breathed his last on Sunday evening in Goa.