Vajpayee's ashes reach Arunachal

The ashes of former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee was brought to Arunachal Pradesh capital today and will be immersed in various rivers across the state.

The ashes will be immersed at Parsuram Kund, the holy pilgrimage in Lohit district of the state, before being taken to Pasighat for people to pay their last respect, BJP sources said.

After state party president Tapir Gao brought from New Delhi the urn containing the ashes of the former prime minister, it was first taken to the BJP office here for party workers to pay their last respect to the departed soul.

Later it was taken to an auditorium where Governor Brig (Retd) Dr B D Mishra, Chief Minister Pema Khandu, his cabinet colleagues and other paid their respect.

Remembering Vajpayee for his path breaking decisions and initiatives, the governor said he was a great politician, an eminent statesman, an able administrator, a development oriented leader and a memorable poet.

He was a strong advocate of humanism and his demise is an irreparable loss to the country, the governor said.

Mishra called upon the people to dedicate themselves towards the peace and development of the state as a befitting tribute to the departed leader.

A condolence meeting was also organised on the occasion.

The ashes is scheduled to be immersed at the holy Parshuram Kund tomorrow.