Odisha CM, Leaders Across Political Divide Condole Jaitley’s Death

New Delhi: Senior BJP leader and former Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley’s death on Saturday was mourned by leaders cutting across political divide.

Condoling his untimely demise, the politicians remembered the late leader as an outstanding lawyer and a parliamentarian whose contribution to the nation’s political discourse was exemplary.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on a state visit to UAE, rang up Jaitley’s wife to convey his grief. Media reports claimed she requested him to continue with his tour as he is also expected to meet US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the G7 summit.

The reactions: 

Naveen Patnaik-

The Odisha Chief Minister, in his condolence message, said Jaitley will be remembered for his immense contribution to governance. He was a distinguished lawyer, a parliamentarian and an erudite person, he said.

 

 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi-

Modi said he has lost a “valued friend” and someone who was admired by people across all sections of the society. The PM said that during the emergency, Jaitley, who was a fiery student union leader then, was at the forefront of protecting democracy.

Sonia Gandhi-

The interim Congress president, in her condolences, said Jaitley had a long innings as a public figure whose contribution to public life will be remembered forever.

Amit Shah-

The Home Minister credited the former finance minister for making India the fastest growing economy in the world.

Nirmala Sitharaman-

The Finance Minister remembered Jaitley as her mentor whose intelligence, sagacity and astuteness were unmatchable.

Rajnath Singh-

The Defence Minister said Jaitley was an “asset” for the government whose knowledge and articulation earned him several friends.

Mayawati-

The BSP supremo hailed the departed soul as an outstanding lawyer and a good human being whose contribution to the nation’s polity will never be forgotten.

 

Mamata Banerjee-

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed sadness over the demise of Arun Jaitley and said he was a politician who was “appreciated across parties”.

“Extremely saddened at the passing away of Arun Jaitley Ji, after a battle bravely borne. An outstanding Parliamentarian & a brilliant lawyer, appreciated across parties. His contribution to Indian polity will be remembered. My condolences to his wife, children, friends & admirers,” Mamata tweeted.