By IANS,
New Delhi : Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday condoled the death of Samajwadi Party leader and Rajya Sabha member Virendra Bhatia, describing him as a “leading lawyer” and a person committed to the cause of “social justice”.
Advocate General of Uttar Pradesh during Mulayam Singh Yadav government’s rule, Bhatia, 63, died in a hospital here. He is survived by his wife and son.
In his condolence message to the late leader’s wife Saroj Bhatia, the prime minister said: “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing away of your husband.”
“The late leader worked against the odds to make his mark as a leading lawyer,” said the prime minister, adding that “he was committed to the cause of social justice and actively worked for equal opportunities for all communities.”
“I convey my sincere condolences at the untimely demise of Bhatia and hope that God will give you the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” Singh said.