New Delhi: Former Defence Minister, George Fernandes passed away on Tuesday at the age of 88 following unstable health for past few years.
Fernandes was one of the most prominent leaders of the socialist movement in the 1970s and he was a senior Janata Dal leader before he founded the Samata Party.
Apart from the defence during the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led government, he served in several ministerial portfolios including communications, industry and railways.
ALSO READ: Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy threatens to quit
Fernandes rose to prominence after his surprise victory in the 1967 parliamentary elections, over a Congress veteran in Mumbai.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took it to Twitter to condole the death of the veteran politician.
“George Sahab represented the best of India’s political leadership. Frank and fearless, forthright and farsighted, he made a valuable contribution to our country. He was among the most effective voices for the rights of the poor and marginalised. Saddened by his passing away,” PM Modi tweeted.
George Sahab represented the best of India’s political leadership.
Frank and fearless, forthright and farsighted, he made a valuable contribution to our country. He was among the most effective voices for the rights of the poor and marginalised.
Saddened by his passing away.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 29, 2019
When we think of Mr. George Fernandes, we remember most notably the fiery trade union leader who fought for justice, the leader who could humble the mightiest of politicians at the hustings, a visionary Railway Minister and a great Defence Minister who made India safe and strong.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 29, 2019
During his long years in public life, George Sahab never deviated from his political ideology. He resisted the Emergency tooth and nail. His simplicity and humility were noteworthy. My thoughts are with his family, friends and lakhs of people grieving. May his soul rest in peace.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 29, 2019