V. Rama Rao was a 'man of committed ideals': Advani

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) veteran Lal Krishna Advani on Sunday condoled the sad demise of former governor of Sikkim and a long-standing party leader V. Rama Rao, saying that he was a 'man of committed ideals'.

In his condolence message, L.K. Advani said, "I am deeply grieved to learn about the demise of former governor of Sikkim and senior BJP leader V.Rama Rao. Only today morning, I had rung up his son to enquire about his health."

"He was one of the founders of Jana Sangh in Andhra Pradesh and was elected to Andhra Pradesh State Legislative Council from Hyderabad Graduates' Constituency for four consecutive terms from 1966. He was a man of committed ideals. He made a mark as the party's floor leader and in debates on both political and issues of public concern," he added.

The BJP veteran also said, "His speeches were marked with humour and wit and often helped in bringing down tensed moments. I offer my heartfelt to the family of Shri Rama Rao. May the departed soul rest in peace."

Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao also expressed condolences on the demise of the former Sikkim Governor.

The long-standing leader of the BJP, V. Rama Rao passed away today in Hyderabad. He is survived by wife and a son. Rama Rao was 80 and ailing for some time now.

A lawyer by profession, V Rama Rao joined the Jana Sangh in 1956. In a political career spanning nearly 6 decades, he rose to become the National Vice-President of the BJP. He also served as the State unit President of the Party twice in the United Andhra Pradesh.