Rahul Gandhi, Amit Shah, President Kovind remember Manohar Parrikar
What's the story
Goa Chief Minister and senior BJP leader Manohar Parrikar passed away on Sunday, after battling pancreatic cancer for months. His health deteriorated on Saturday and CMO said doctors were "trying their best" to save him. As soon as the sad news broke, political leaders expressed condolences. Almost everyone praised Parrikar's dedication towards the nation and appreciated his humble nature. Here's more.
Condolences
Gandhi calls Parrikar "Goa's favorite son", Shah expresses grief
BJP President Amit Shah said the party stands with Parrikar's family. "I along with millions of BJP karyakartas and importantly the people of Goa, who were his family, express my deepest condolences," his tweet read. Meanwhile, Congress President Rahul Gandhi tweeted that Parrikar was one of Goa's favorite sons. He added Parrikar bravely fought "a debilitating illness for over a year."
Tweets
President Kovind remembers Parrikar's dedication, Nirmala Sitharaman praises him
President Ram Nath Kovind expressed condolences and wrote Parrikar was "An epitome of integrity and dedication in public life, his service to the people of Goa and of India will not be forgotten." Defense Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tweeted that she learned a lot from Parrikar. Notably, Parrikar served as Union Defense Minister but returned to his home state Goa after 2017 Assembly elections.
Twitter Post
Sitharaman tweets Parrikar's contribution was unmatched
Shri Manohar Parrikar is no more. A sincere, honest sensitive political activist. Was simple and down to earth, I learnt a lot from Shri.Parrikar. As Raksha Mantri his contribution to making the armed forces a modernised, lean mean fighting machine will remain unparalleled.
— Chowkidar Nirmala Sitharaman (@nsitharaman) March 17, 2019
Reactions
Omar Abdullah says Parrikar's void will be difficult to fill
Separately, Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi wrote: Deeply pained at the demise of Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parikar ji, who was known for integrity and honesty in public life. NC leader and former J&K CM Omar Abdullah also expressed condolences to the family. "His untimely demise has left a void that will be difficult to fill. May his soul rest in peace," he tweeted.
Twitter Post
Mehbooba Mufti says Parrikar was a true fighter
Saddened to hear about the passing away of Shri Manohar Parrikar. He was a true fighter who despite battling cancer, worked tirelessly for the welfare of his people with a sense of duty dignity. Condolences to his loved ones family.
— Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) March 17, 2019
Twitter Post
Rajnath Singh praises Parrikar's integrity
Deeply saddened and pained by the demise of my dear friend Chief Minister of Goa, Shri Manohar Parrikar. He was known for his honesty, integrity and simplicity. He served the nation and the state of Goa with great diligence. My heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family.
— Chowkidar Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) March 17, 2019