By IANS,
New Delhi : Athletics Federation of India (AFI) president and veteran Congress leader Umrao Singh passed away in Jalandhar Sunday after a brief illness. He was 82 and is survived by his wife, a son and three daughters.
Umrao, a former Congress MP, was suffering from chest infection for the past few months. He was associated with the AFI for the past 50 years and also served as its president twice and was also a council member of the International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF).
He was conferred with Padam Bhushan for his contribution towards successful conduct of the 1982 Asian Games in New Delhi. Umrao was also the founding president of Asian Athletics Association and senior member of Indian Olympic Association.
Prime minister Manmohan Singh condoled his death.
“Umrao Singh was a dear friend and a valued colleague. His passing away is a great personal loss for me. He will always be remembered for his fine human qualities and his commitment to the cause of uplift of the poor and the underprivileged,” said the prime minister in a condolence message to the late leader’s wife.
Remembering Umrao’s role, Manmohan Singh said: “He served both his party and his country with dedication and commitment. He distinguished himself as member of the legislative assembly of Punjab, minister in the Punjab government and as member of parliament.”