Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed died on Thursday while undergoing treatment in Delhi’s All India Institute of Medical Science.
Tributes have been pouring in for the veteran PDP leader and a stalwart in Kashmir politics.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “Mufti Sahab’s demise leaves a huge void in the nation & in J&K, where his exemplary leadership had a major impact on people’s lives. RIP. What stood out about Mufti Sahab was his statesmanship. In his long political journey he won many admirers across the political spectrum.
“Mufti Sahab provided a healing touch to J&K through his leadership. He will be missed by all of us. Condolences to his family & supporters.”
Former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah said, ” Just heard the terrible terrible news of Mufti Sahib’s passing away. I’m shocked & deeply saddened. May he rest in peace. My heart felt sympathies to Mrs Syed, Mehbooba & the entire family in this most difficult of times. My & my family’s prayers are with them.”
Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal tweeted, ” V sad to hear abt Shri Mufti Mohd. Sayeed’s demise. May his soul rest in peace. Heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. (Sic)”
Congress’ vice president Rahul Gandhi said, ” Extremely saddened to learn of the passing away of Mufti Mohammad Sayeed Saab. My condolences to his family and supporters. A veteran politician, he had a long & distinguished political career. His loss will be deeply mourned in J&K and across the country.
Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said, ” Deeply pained to learn of J&K CM Shri Mufti Mohd. Sayeed’s demise.He was known for his love for common people, specially the underprivileged. Mufti Sayeed ji had a wonderful understanding of complex issues pertaining to J&K. He wanted to bring permanent peace to the valley.”
PTI reported that Sayeed’s daughter Mehbooba Mufti was likely to be sworn in as the new chief minister.
Sayeed, 79, who took charge of the state on March 1 last year heading a PDP-BJP alliance, breathed his last this morning after remaining on ventilator for the past few days.
He was flown from Srinagar in a special plane on December 24 and admitted to the AIIMS where he was diagnosed with sepsis (life threatening complication of an infection) and pneumonia. During hospitalisation his platelets had dropped dangerously, doctors said.
He is the second J and K Chief Minister to die in office, the first one being Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah who died on September 8, 1982.
More to follow