‘Void in our nation’: PM Modi, others condole Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan’s death

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other Opposition leaders on Thursday condoled the death of Union Minister and Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) leader Ram Vilas Paswan.

In a series of Tweets, PM Modi said, “I am saddened beyond words. There is a void in our nation that will perhaps never be filled. Shri Ram Vilas Paswan Ji’s demise is a personal loss. I have lost a friend, valued colleague and someone who was extremely passionate to ensure every poor person leads a life of dignity.”

The Prime Minister further stated that working with Paswan has been “an incredible experience”, adding that “his interventions during Cabinet Meetings were insightful. From political wisdom, statesmanship to governance issues, he was brilliant.”

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said he was “extremely disturbed” by the news of Paswan’s death. 

“Whether it is to fight against the Emergency of 1975 or to make the poor welfare mantra meaningful in the Corona epidemic in the Modi government, Ram Vilas Paswan ji has played a unique role in all these. While working in many important positions, Paswan was beloved by everyone with his simple and gentle personality,” Shah tweeted.

President Ram Nath Kovind tweeted: “The nation has lost a visionary leader.”

“He was among the most active and longest-serving members of parliament. He was the voice of the oppressed, and championed the cause of the marginalized,” the president added. 

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar called Paswan a “tall personality of Indian politics – sharp orator, popular leader, able administrator, strong organiser with affable personality,” Bihar CMO was quoted as saying by ANI. 

Minister of State for Home Affirs G Kishan Reddy said Paswan’s “persona and conviction to serve our people will be deeply missed”. 

Meanwhile, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said, “The news of untimely demise of Ram Vilas Paswan ji is sad. The poor-downtrodden lost a strong political voice today.”

Paswan died on Thursday after undergoing heart surgery at a Delhi hospital. He was 74-years-old. 

His death was confirmed by his son Chirag Paswan, who tweeted, “Papa, you are not with us anymore.”