Economy

George Fernandes passes away after prolonged illness

Updated : January 29, 2019 10:10 AM IST

George Fernandes was India's defence minister in the NDA government headed by Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

George Fernandes passes away after prolonged illness

Former defence minister George Fernandes passed away on Tuesday following a prolonged illness, his family sources said.

Fernandes was suffering from Alzheimer's disease. Recently, he contracted swine flu, they said.

Fernandes was India's defence minister in the NDA government headed by Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Prime minister Narendra Modi took to social media site Twitter to express his condolence saying that "George Sahab represented the best of India's political leadership."

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

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