Former Defence Minister Jaswant Singh Passes Away

New Delhi: Former Defence Minister Jaswant Singh passed away early Sunday, said an official statement from the R&R Hospital here. He was 82.

The former Union Minister was a close aide of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpaee he had handled important portfolios during the late PM's tenure and was a powerful leader of his time.

"Major Jaswant Singh (Retd), former Cabinet Minister, passed away at 6.55 a.m. today. He was admitted on 25 June and was being treated for Sepsis with Multiorgan Dysfunction Syndrome. He had a cardiac arrest this morning. His Covid status is negative" said the statement.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the demise of the former minister on Twitter.

“Jaswant Singh Ji will be remembered for his unique perspective on matters of politics and society,” said PM Modi.

Jaswant Singh Ji served our nation diligently, first as a soldier and later during his long association with politics. During Atal Ji’s Government, he handled crucial portfolios and left a strong mark in the worlds of finance, defence and external affairs. Saddened by his demise.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 27, 2020

“ He also contributed to the strengthening of the BJP. I will always remember our interactions. Condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti,” he added.

Jaswant Singh Ji will be remembered for his unique perspective on matters of politics and society. He also contributed to the strengthening of the BJP. I will always remember our interactions. Condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 27, 2020

"Deeply pained by the passing away of veteran BJP leader and former Minister, Shri Jaswant Singhji. He served the nation in several capacities including the charge of Raksha Mantri. He distinguished himself as an effective Minister and Parliamentarian," Defence Minister Rajnath Singh tweeted.

Deeply pained by the passing away of veteran BJP leader & former Minister, Shri Jaswant Singh ji. He served the nation in several capacities including the charge of Raksha Mantri. He distinguished himself as an effective Minister and Parliamentarian.

— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) September 27, 2020

"Shri Jaswant Singhji would be remembered for his intellectual capabilities and stellar record in service to the nation. He also played a key role in strengthening the BJP in Rajasthan. Condolences to his family and supporters in this sad hour. Om Shanti," he added.

Shri Jaswant Singh ji would be remembered for his intellectual capabilities and stellar record in service to the nation. He also played a key role in strengthening the BJP in Rajasthan. Condolences to his family and supporters in this sad hour. Om Shanti.

— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) September 27, 2020

Condolences have started pouring in. Speaker Om Birla also remembered Singh as an efficient politician and Army officer.

(IANS)