Prez condoles Sangma's demise, says nation has lost an 'eminent public figure'

President Pranab Mukherjee on Friday condoled the demise of former Lok Sabha speaker P.A. Sangma, saying the nation has lost an eminent public figure and multi-faceted personality who made immense contribution for the greater good of the country.

"His distinguished service as former Speaker of the Lok Sabha, Union Cabinet Minister, Union Minister of State and Union Deputy Minister will always be remembered. In his passing away, the nation has lost an eminent public figure and multi-faceted personality who made immense contribution for the greater good of our country," said President Mukherjee.

In a condolence message to his wife, Soradini Sangma, the President said, "I am sad to learn about the passing away of your husband, P.A. Sangma. Sangma was a veteran Parliamentarian and able administrator who served the nation in different spheres."

President Mukherjee said Sangma, as former chief minister of Meghalaya, was instrumental in the state attaining rapid development in many areas.

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