Pranab Mukherjee condoles passing away of R.S. Gavai

President Mukherjee on Monday condoled the passing away of veteran Ambedkarite and former Governor of Kerala, Sikkim and Bihar, R.S. Gavai.

In his condolence message to his wife, Kamal Gavai, the President Mujherje said, "I am sad to learn about the passing away of R.S. Gavai."

"Gavai was Member of the Maharashtra Legislative Council from 1964 to 1994, Deputy Chairman of the Legislative Council from 1968 to 1978, Chairman from 1978 to 1984, and Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Council from 1986 to 1988," he said.

"Gavai served as Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) from 1998 to 2000 and Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) from 2000 to 2006. He served the nation with distinction as the Governor of Kerala, Sikkim and Bihar. A close associate of Dr B.R. Ambedkar, Gavai rendered yeoman service as Chairman of the Deekshabhoomi Smarak Samiti in Nagpur," he added.

President Mukherjee said that the nation will always remember Gavai's valuable contributions.

"Please accept my heartfelt condolences and convey the same to the rest of your family members. I pray to the Almighty to give you and other members of the family strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss," he added.