Goa Chief Minister and former India Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar died after a prolonged illness at his residence at Dona Paula. The 63-year-old politician was suffering from a serious pancreatic ailment.
Earlier his office had said that his health condition was extremely critical. The former Defence Minister's health, which had been fluctuating for a year, had detoriarated in the past two days. As per the sources, Parrikar had been on life support system since late Saturday night.
The President of India Ram Nath Kovind in a tweet informed of his demise:
Extremely sorry to hear of the passing of Shri Manohar Parrikar, Chief Minister of Goa, after an illness borne with fortitude and dignity. An epitome of integrity and dedication in public life, his service to the people of Goa and of India will not be forgotten #PresidentKovind
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) March 17, 2019
Born in Goa, Parrikar had completed his secondary education in Marathi and went on to graduate in metallurgical engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT Bombay) in 1978.
He served as the Chief Minister of Goa thrice. Because of his simple lifestyle, he was called common man's CM. Parrikar had also served as the Defence Minister of India from 2014 to 2017.
The politician was respected by his party along with the opposition leaders alike. Tribute for the leader poured over social media:
Shri Manohar Parrikar was an unparalleled leader.
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 17, 2019
A true patriot and exceptional administrator, he was admired by all. His impeccable service to the nation will be remembered by generations.
Deeply saddened by his demise. Condolences to his family and supporters.
Om Shanti. pic.twitter.com/uahXme3ifp
The nation has lost a true Bharat Ratna today in the demise of Manohar Parrikar. I first knew him when he was a IIT Powai student who served as my booth agent when I won twice in that constituency in 1977 and 1980. He remained my friend through thick and thin.
— Subramanian Swamy (@Swamy39) March 17, 2019
Deeply saddened to hear the demise of Sh. Manohar Parrikar Ji. May your soul rest in peace 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/IBHZB1UOom
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) March 17, 2019
I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Goa CM, Shri Manohar Parrikar Ji, who bravely battled a debilitating illness for over a year.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) March 17, 2019
Respected and admired across party lines, he was one of Goa’s favourite sons.
My condolences to his family in this time of grief.