BJP leader Tapan Sikdar is dead

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday expressed sadness over the death of BJP leader and former union minister Tapan Sikdar, and said that he will be remembered for his "rich contribution in building the BJP".

"Tapan Sikdar ji's demise is extremely saddening. May his soul rest in peace," Modi said in a tweet.

He added: "Tapan Sikdar will be remembered for his rich contribution in building the BJP and his years of dedicated public service."

Sikdar was a union minister in the Atal Bihari Vajapyee government from 1999 to 2004.

He was admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) here May 29.