Hamid Ansari condoles Khushwant Singh's death

Vice President M. Hamid Ansari has condoled the passing away of Khushwant Singh, an iconic figure and one of the most prominent authors, commentators and journalists of the country.

In his condolence message, Ansari said that Khushwant Singh had a long, prolific and illustrious literary career, spanning several decades, during which he wrote on subjects varying from politics and poetry to issues of social concern.

"I am profoundly saddened at the passing away of Shri Khushwant Singh, an iconic figure and one of the most prominent authors, commentators and journalists of our country. He also served as a Member of the Rajya Sabha from 1980-86," he added.

"Khushwant Singh had a long, prolific and illustrious literary career, spanning several decades, during which he wrote on subjects varying from politics and poetry to issues of social concern. He was particularly admired for being fearless in expressing his views in his writings and speech," he said.

"I convey my heartfelt condolences to the members of the bereaved family, his friends and admirers. I pray to the Almighty to give them strength and fortitude to bear their loss," he added.

Khushwant Singh breathed his last at 12.55 p.m. today of old age complications. He was 99.