TAMILNADU, 6 December, 2016 (GPN): President Pranab Mukherjee, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice President Hamid Ansari, Union ministers, Congress President Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and various other top leaders have condoled Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa’s demise and paid floral tributes to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa who passed away on Monday night.

DMK chief M Karunanidhi said there may have been many differences of opinion between the DMK and the AIADMK but there can be no doubts she “bravely” worked for her partymen’s welfare. “Although she might have died at a young age (68), there is no doubt that her fame will remain forever.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, “Deeply saddened at the passing away of Jayalalithaa; her demise has left a huge void in Indian politics. I will always cherish the innumerable occasions when I had the opportunity to interact with Jayalalithaa ji. May her soul rest in peace.”

President Pranab Mukherjee said, “Heartfelt condolences on the sad demise of Ms Jayaram Jayalalithaa, Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. One of India’s most charismatic and popular leaders, Ms Jayalalithaa was a visionary and able administrator. Her life was dedicated to the socio-economic transformation of Tamil Nadu and its people. In her passing away, the nation has lost an icon who was loved and admired by millions. Her contribution to the progress and development of Tamil Nadu will be long remembered.”

Vice President Hamid Ansari said, “An eminent public figure, a charismatic personality, she had immense influence over the political developments in Tamil Nadu as well as the national level. As Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, her contributions towards the economic development of the state and social welfare of the poorer segments will be long remembered and cherished. Her death is an irreparable loss to the people of India.”

Congress President Sonia Gandhi said, “I am deeply grieved to learn the passing of Selvi J Jayalalithaa. Selvi Jayalalithaa lived her entire life with the same indomitable courage with which she battled her illness. As the leader of AIADMK and four-time Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, she had a unique and deep empathy with the needs and hopes of the people, and put in place policies that immeasurably improved their lives. Whether it was her welfare schemes for the rural and urban poor, her swift relief measures in the aftermath of tsunami, or her vision of Tamil Nadu’s industrial development, her leadership qualities and administratively abilities were truly outstanding.”

Sonia hailed her as a “towering figure in our national and political life, who won admiration across the political spectrum for the intrepid spirit with which she faced the ups and downs of her life in politics.”

Congress Vice-President Rahul Gandhi said, “We lost a great leader today. Women, farmers, fishermen and the marginalised dreamt through her eyes. We will miss Jayalalithaaji, Amma to millions.”

Home Minister Rajnath Singh said, “She was a powerful voice for the weaker sections of the society. She always worked for the benefit of the poor and needy. She has left an indelible mark in Tamil Nadu politics with her enduring legacy. Selvi Jayalalithaa was one of the most iconic political figures of India who had an enormous impact on the people of Tamil Nadu. I pay my heartfelt tributes to the departed soul. I also appeal to the people of Tamil Nadu to remain calm in this hour of grief.”

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said, “A popular, bold, efficient, people-friendly charismatic leader Amma, always at the heart of people. Big loss, I am shocked, saddened. I humbly urge the people of Tamil Nadu and AIADMK to face this big loss with courage and greatness. May she rest in peace.”