Former President Pranab Mukherjee passes away at 84

Pranab Mukherjee, former President of India and Bharat Ratna, passed away at the age of 84 after battling a long illness.  breathed his last at Army Hospital in New Delhi this evening.  Mukherjee had tested positive for the coronavirus disease before undergoing a successful surgery to remove a brain clot. His son Abhijit Mukherjee informed this through Twitter.

He said, Mr Pranab Mukherjee passed away in spite of the best efforts of doctors of Army R&R Hospital and prayers, duas and prarthanas from people throughout the country.

The Government has  declared seven day national mourning as a mark of respect to the former President Pranab Mukherjee.

The leaders are tweeting their tributes to the former president.

India grieves the passing away of Bharat Ratna Shri Pranab Mukherjee. He has left an indelible mark on the development trajectory of our nation. A scholar par excellence, a towering statesman, he was admired across the political spectrum and by all sections of society. pic.twitter.com/gz6rwQbxi6

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 31, 2020

Pranab Da’s life will always be cherished for his impeccable service and indelible contribution to our motherland. His demise has left a huge void in Indian polity. My sincerest condolences are with his family and followers on this irreparable loss. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) August 31, 2020

Pranabda epitomised simplicity, honesty and strength of character. He served our country with diligence and dedication.

His contribution to public life was invaluable. My deepest condolences to his bereaved family. Om Shanti!

— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) August 31, 2020

With great sadness, the nation receives the news of the unfortunate demise of our former President Shri Pranab Mukherjee.

I join the country in paying homage to him.

My deepest condolences to the bereaved family and friends. pic.twitter.com/zyouvsmb3V

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 31, 2020

Mr Mukherjee served as 13th President of India from 2012 to 2017. He also served as Union Minister of Finance, Defence, External Affairs and Commerce.

Mr Mukherjee was also Deputy Chairman of Planning Commission. He was elected to Rajya Sabha five times and twice to Lok Sabha. Mr Mukherjee served as Leader of both houses of Parliament.