‘He was a father figure’, Mamata Banerjee pays tribute to Pranab Mukherjee

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee took to Twitter to offer her condolences on the death of former president Pranab Mukherjee. 

Mamata Banerjee said, “It is with deep sorrow I write this. Bharat Ratna Pranab Mukherjee has left us. An era has ended. For decades he was a father figure. From my first win as MP, to being my senior Cabinet colleague, to his becoming President while I was CM…”

Also read: Pranab Mukherjee death: Government announces seven-day state mourning

Her association with Pranab Mukherjee began almost four decades back when they were both part of the West Bengal unit of the Congress. 

In his 2017 book, ‘The Coalition Years’, Mukherjee talked about when Mamata became an MP for the first time in 1984 and said, “This was a splendid victory and she appeared to be truly a giant killer. Throughout her subsequent political life, she has always faced tough challenges bravely and tried to convert them into opportunities.”

Mamata Banerjee further said, “So many memories.A visit to Delhi without Pranabda is unimaginable. He is a legend in all subjects from politics to economics. Will be forever grateful. Shall miss him immensely. My condolences to Abhijit & Sharmistha.”

Pranab Mukherjee passed away at the Army RR Hospital in Delhi on Monday.