Panaji, March 17: Four-time Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar breathed his last in Panaji on Sunday. Following prolonged illness - due to the pancreatic ailments he was suffering with - the 63-year-old died at his residence. The doctors treating him tried their best, but his health condition had deteriorated beyond a point of no-recovery.
The BJP veteran's death evoked an emotive reaction from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Ram Nath Kovind, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and other leaders cutting across party lines. Here are the prominent reactions to his passing away:
Unparalleled Leader, True Patriot: PM Modi
Shri Manohar Parrikar was an unparalleled leader.
A true patriot and exceptional administrator, he was admired by all. His impeccable service to the nation will be remembered by generations.
Deeply saddened by his demise. Condolences to his family and supporters.
Om Shanti. pic.twitter.com/uahXme3ifp
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 17, 2019
Shri Manohar Parrikar was the builder of modern Goa. Thanks to his affable personality and accessible nature, he remained the preferred leader of the state for years. His pro-people policies ensured Goa scales remarkable heights of progress.
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 17, 2019
India will be eternally grateful to Shri Manohar Parrikar for his tenure as our Defence Minister. When he was RM, India witnessed a series of decisions that enhanced India’s security capacities, boosted indigenous defence production and bettered the lives of ex-servicemen.
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 17, 2019
President Condoles Demise
Extremely sorry to hear of the passing of Shri Manohar Parrikar, Chief Minister of Goa, after an illness borne with fortitude and dignity. An epitome of integrity and dedication in public life, his service to the people of Goa and of India will not be forgotten #PresidentKovind
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) March 17, 2019
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Pays Tribute
My condolences to the bereaved family of Shri. Manohar Parrikar. I met him only once, when he graciously visited my mother at the hospital two years ago. May his soul rest in peace.
— Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) March 17, 2019
One of Goa's Favourite Sons Has Passed Away: Rahul Gandhi
I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Goa CM, Shri Manohar Parrikar Ji, who bravely battled a debilitating illness for over a year.
Respected and admired across party lines, he was one of Goa’s favourite sons.
My condolences to his family in this time of grief.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) March 17, 2019
Mourning the Loss of a Rare IIT graduate in Politics: Shashi Tharoor
Mourning the loss of Manohar Parrikar, a rare IIT graduate in politics who was widely admired for his simplicity & straightforwardness. Wishing his family strength & peace at this time of grief.
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) March 17, 2019
Lost a Great Friend: Nitin Gadkari
"He was a very humble person, one of the most devoted leaders in Indian politics. This is a big loss to the nation. For me, it's a huge personal loss as well. I've lost a great friend," Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said.
Amit Shah Expresses Solidarity With Bereaved Family
Entire BJP stands firmly with Parrikar ji’s family. I along with millions of BJP karyakartas and importantly the people of Goa, who were his family, express my deepest condolences. May God give the bereaved family strength to withstand this tragic loss. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti. pic.twitter.com/HWFA4gtSnX
— Chowkidar Amit Shah (@AmitShah) March 17, 2019
Sad Day For All of Us: Jayant Chaudhary
A sad day for all of us. Goa CM, Manohar Parrikar was a honest man who was dedicated to serving his people.
— Jayant Chaudhary (@jayantrld) March 17, 2019
Parrikar, since January last year, has been suffering from pancreatic ailments. He was also flown to the United States for treatment. Shortly after returning, the symptoms resurfaced which forced the BJP veteran to get admitted at the AIIMS. After treatment which lasted for nearly three months, he was released and primarily treated by the doctors at his residence.
The Goa CM last made his public appearance while presenting the Budget in the State Assembly. His condition appeared fragile, with nasal tubes installed to keep his vital body parameters stable.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 17, 2019 08:38 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).