Sayeed understood complex issues, loved people, say leaders

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mufti Muhammad Sayeed, who died in a hospital here on Thursday, was known for his love for the underprivileged and understood complex state issues well, leaders said as tributes poured in.

Leaders across political parties expressed their grief. Home Minister Rajnath Singh said: "He (Sayeed) was known for his love for the common people, specially the underprivileged."

Singh said he will attend Sayeed's last rites in Srinagar later in the day. Sayeed breathed his last at 9.10 a.m. at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) here.

The home minister also tweeted that Sayeed "had a wonderful understanding of complex issues pertaining to Jammu and Kashmir. He wanted to bring permanent peace to the valley".

"His departure has also left a big void in national politics," he added.

Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi condoled Sayeed's death to his family and supporters. "A veteran politician, he had a long and distinguished political career. His loss will be deeply mourned in Jammu and Kashmir and across the country," Gandhi tweeted.

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah too joined his peers and said: "My heart felt sympathies to Mrs. Sayeed, Mehbooba and the entire family in this most difficult of times. My and my family's prayers are with them."

Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar said: "Mufti Muhammad Sayeed was not only a good leader but a great reconciliator. His demise is a big loss. My heartfelt condolences to his family."

Minister of state for Information and Broadcasting Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore tweeted: "Condolences and strength to his family. May his soul rest in peace."