Thaindian News

New Delhi, March 4 (IANS) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Friday condoled the death of veteran Congress leader Arjun Singh, saying he had left a strong imprint on the political life of the nation and was a leader with deep ties to the people.

In his message to Arjun Singh’s wife Saroj Kumari, Manmohan Singh described the departed leader as “one of the seniormost leaders in our political life”.

“In his passing away the country has lost a veteran leader who left a strong imprint on our political life,” he said.

“I was deeply grieved to hear of the sad demise of Arjun Singh. Arjun Singh was one of the senior most leaders in our political life,” he added.

Tracing Arjun Singh’s political career, the prime minister said he became a member of the Madhya Pradesh legislative assembly and served the state in many capacities.

He rose to become the state chief minister first from 1980-85 and then in 1988-89. Arjun Singh had a distinguished career in parliament and was a sitting member of the Rajya Sabha at the time of his passing away.

He held a number of sensitive and important assignments during his career, notably holding the office of the human resource development minister in the government for eight years.

“Arjun Singh will be remembered for his deep concern for the welfare of the disadvantaged sections and for promoting the cause of equality and social justice in the country. He was an able administrator, experienced legislator and a leader who had strong ties to the people,” the prime minister said.

“I convey my deepest condolences to you, all members of the family and Arjun Singh’s many friends, well wishers and followers. I pray for the repose of the departed soul,” he added.