‘Colossal figure of Indian politics’: Leaders across political spectrum remember Parkash Singh Badal

“Extremely saddened by the passing away of Shri Parkash Singh Badal Ji. He was a colossal figure of Indian politics, and a remarkable statesman who contributed greatly to our nation. He worked tirelessly for the progress of Punjab and anchored the state through critical times,” Modi said.

Badal, a five-time chief minister, passed away at a private hospital in Mohali, days after he was hospitalised following complaints of breathing difficulties.

President Droupadi Murmu called Badal “one of the tallest political stalwarts since independence,” and said, “though his exemplary career in public service was largely confined to Punjab, he was respected across the country.”

“The news of the demise of Sardar Parkash Singh Badal, former Chief Minister of Punjab and former President of Shiromani Akali Dal, is sad. He was a lifelong leader of the politics of India and Punjab,” tweeted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann tweeted his condolence message praying for the peace of the departed soul and for fortitude of the family to bear the loss.

Former chief minister and BJP leader Amarinder Singh also expressed profound grief over his demise, calling him “a veteran political stalwart and five-time Chief Minister of Punjab.”

In his condolence message to his son and Shiromani Akali Dal-Badal president, Sukhbir Singh Badal, Amarinder said he shared the family’s grief over this irreparable loss. He said it was “not only a loss to the family, but to the entire state and the country as a whole.”

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