Prime Minister Narendra Modi today described eminent journalist Inder Malhotra as a "stalwart" of journalism and expressed sadness at his death.
"Shri Inder Malhotra was a stalwart of Indian journalism, whose work will always be respected & remembered. Saddened by his demise. RIP," Modi tweeted.
Malhotra, who helmed a string of top publications and was an accomplished political commentator, passed away yesterday at the age of 86.
President Pranab Mukherjee, Vice President Hamid Ansari and Congress President Sonia Gandhi have expressed grief at Malhotra's demise.
Malhotra began his career at the United Press of India news agency and went on to hold editorial positions at leading dailies.
Malhotra was Editor of The Times of India, New Delhi from 1978-86. Before that he worked for The Statesman for 15 years, first as the Political Correspondent and Chief of the Bureau and then as Deputy Editor.
In his later years, Malhotra turned a columnist for various publications and offered deep insights into India's political history through his writings, most notably through his column 'Rear View'.
Malhotra, a recipient of the prestigious Ramnath Goenka Award (Lifetime Achievement), also authored few books including former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's biography, 'Indira Gandhi: A Personal & Political Biograpy (1989)'.
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Meanwhile, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan, Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal and Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal also condoled the demise of Malhotra.
In her message, Mahajan said, "I am pained to learn about the demise of Shri Inder Malhotra. In his passing away, the nation has lost a senior journalist of rare calibre who won the admiration of millions in India and abroad. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the members of his bereaved family".
Badal, in his message, described Malhotra as an iconic personality in the field of journalism, who ever performed his duties with utmost commitment, sincerity and dedication to uphold freedom of Press.
"Being a multi-faceted personality, veteran journalist Inder Malhotra was one of the finest journalists of his era, whose in-depth knowledge coupled with dynamic and visionary approach in his writings on different aspects of national issues," Badal said.
