Mohali/IBNS: Parkash Singh Badal, a five-time former Punjab Chief Minister, and Akali Dal patriarch, died on Tuesday. He was 95.
The demise was confirmed by party president Sukhbir Singh Badal.
Badal was admitted to Fortis Hospital in Mohali a week ago after he complained of uneasiness while breathing.
He was also the youngest Chief Minister to ever hold office in the state of Punjab.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the tributes to the Punjab veteran politician, calling Badal a “colossal figure of Indian politics, and a remarkable statesman”.
“Extremely saddened by the passing away of Shri Parkash Singh Badal Ji. He was a colossal figure of Indian politics, and a remarkable statesman who contributed greatly to our nation. He worked tirelessly for the progress of Punjab and anchored the state through critical times,” PM Modi tweeted with a picture of himself with the veteran leader.
PM Modi said Badal’s passing away is a personal loss for him.
In another tweet, the PM said: “Shri Parkash Singh Badal’s passing away is a personal loss for me. I have interacted closely with him for many decades and learnt so much from him. I recall our numerous conversations, in which his wisdom was always clearly seen. Condolences to his family and countless admirers.”
President Droupadi Murmu also joined in tweeting condolence message.
“Shri Parkash Singh Badal was one of the tallest political stalwarts since independence. Though his exemplary career in public service was largely confined to Punjab, he was respected across the country. His demise leaves a void. My heartfelt condolences to his family and admirers,” her office tweeted.
Some other tributes are as follows:
