By IANS,
Mumbai : Condolences poured in from political leaders of Maharashtra for union minister and former chief minister Vilasrao Deshmukh soon after the news of his death spread across the state.
Governor K. Sankaranarayanan expressed deep condolences on Deshmukh’s death and said that the state has lost an astute and pragmatic leader with vast and varied contribution to the political, social and economic life of Maharashtra.
“A leader of the masses with immense popularity, Deshmukh had risen the ranks of public life from the grassroots level on the dint of his vast mass base and hard work. He had a remarkable career in public life, having held all important positions right from the village sarpanch to the chief minister,” he said in a message.
Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan expressed his grief over Deshmukh’s death and said that he has lost a friend.
“He was popular not only within the party but also amongst the opposition. He was a light hearted person who was always smiling. I convey my heartfelt condolences to the members of the bereaved family,” he said.
Expressing his condolences, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar said that Deshmukh’s memory will always be alive in the hearts of everyone in the state.
“I still cannot believe that a vibrant and jovial personality like him is no longer with us,” he said.
Republican Party of India (RPI) chief Ramdas Athawale said the state has lost an outstanding leader, who was a role model for many others.
“I have lost a valued colleague. His life was one of tireless commitment and service to the people, especially the poor, Dalits and the underprivileged. His legacy will live on and inspire many others in the times to come,” Athawale said.
Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) state chief Madhukar Pichad said that Deshmukh was a jovial personal and a good orator. “He was a born leader and had an unshakeable place in his party. Maharashtra will never forget its son of the soil.”
Industry associations also expressed grief over Deshmukh’s demise.
Assocham president Rajkumar N. Dhoot expressed shock over Deshmukh’s sudden death and said that his contributions to the state will always be remembered.
“His entire life had been devoted in the services of the common people selflessly. Assocham sincerely mourns his death and prays to the Almighty that the departed soul rest in peace,” Dhoot said.
The Indian Merchants’ Chamber (IMC) praised Deshmukh’s exemplary leadership qualities.
“More than anything else, he was a fine human being who was able to see the world from the eyes of the underdog, and effectively work for his progress. In his passing away, Maharashtra has lost a politician and social worker par excellence. We pray for his soul to rest in peace,” IMC president Niranjan Hiranandani said.
Deshmukh died in Chennai’s Global Hospital Tuesday after a prolonged illness. He was 67.
Both houses of parliament were adjourned as soon as the news of the Congress leader’s demise came in. The governor also cancelled the Independence Day ‘At Home’ reception organised by him Wednesday evening.