Former union minister BJP leader and ex-army officer Jaswant Singh died at the age of 82 following prolonged illness. The army hospital issued a statement to confirm his death, adding that his covid 19 test was negative.
“It is with profound grief that we inform about the sad demise of Hon’ble Major Jaswant Singh (Retd), former Cabinet Minister of Government of India at 0655 hours on 27 September 2020. He was admitted on 25 Jun 2020 and being treated for Sepsis with Multiorgan Dysfunction Syndrome and effects of Severe Head Injury old (Optd) had a Cardiac arrest this morning. Despite the best efforts of the attending team of specialists to resuscitate him, he could not be revived and passed away at 0655 hours on 27 Sep 2020. His COVID status is negative,” the Army Hospital (R&R), Delhi Cantt said in a statement,
Expressing his grief, PM Modi wrote in a series of tweets, “Spoke to Shri Manvendra Singh and expressed condolences on the unfortunate demise of Shri Jaswant Singh Ji. True to his nature, Jaswant Ji fought his illness with immense courage for the last six years. Jaswant Singh Ji served our nation diligently, first as a soldier and later during his long association with politics. During Atal Ji’s Government, he handled crucial portfolios and left a strong mark in the worlds of finance, defence and external affairs. Saddened by his demise.”
“Jaswant Singh Ji will be remembered for his unique perspective on matters of politics and society. He also contributed to the strengthening of the BJP. I will always remember our interactions. Condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti,” he added.
Prashant Bhushan also wrote, “RIP Jaswant Singh ji, you were among the last of the Vajpayee generation gentlemanly leaders. Unfortunately your kind has been replaced in the BJP by vaccuous, brash, abusive, egotistic, fawning, bullies & bhakts. No resemblance at all to Vajpayee’s BJP.”
Before paying a visit to express ihs grief, home minister Rajnath Singh had also tweeted, “Shri Jaswant Singh ji would be remembered for his intellectual capabilities and stellar record in service to the nation. He also played a key role in strengthening the BJP in Rajasthan. Condolences to his family and supporters in this sad hour. Om Shanti.”