Leaders across country pay tributes to Jaipal Reddy, hail him as outstanding politician

Congress veteran S Jaipal Reddy, who died in the early hours of Sunday at the age of 77, was paid rich tributes by leaders across the country who hailed him as an outstanding politician, orator and administrator.

President Ram Nath Kovind remembered Reddy as a "thinking person's politician and an outstanding parliamentarian" while Vice President M Venkaih Naidu described him as an exemplary orator with "razor sharp intellect and biting wit".

Condoling Reddy's demise, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was an effective administrator.

Leaders across the political spectrum remembered Reddy for his contribution to Indian polity with his erudition, administrative skills and honesty.

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh, in whose Cabinet Reddy served between 2004-14, called him a friend and expressed deep sadness at his untimely demise.

"He was a treasure of wisdom and knowledge. My condolences to the bereaved family," Singh said in a statement.

Former Congress president Sonia Gandhi said Reddy was an erudite and humane leader who enriched Parliament and different governments he served.

BJP president Amit Shah expressed sadness at Reddy's demise while Congress leader Rahul Gandhi called him an outstanding parliamentarian and a great son of Telangana who dedicated his entire life towards public service.

In a tweet, Modi said, "Shri Jaipal Reddy had years of experience in public life. He was respected as an articulate speaker and effective administrator. Saddened by his demise."