File Picture
Seasoned journalist and acclaimed author Kuldeep Nayar has passed away. He died at a hospital in New Delhi, his family confirmed on 23 August. He was 95.
Born on August 14 in the year 1923, Nayyar kick-started his career in Urdu journalism. Nayar, who was also a human rights activist, served as High Commissioner to the UK in 1990 and was also nominated to the Rajya Sabha.
A syndicated columnist, he has written several books including “Beyond the Lines” and “India after Nehru”.
Kuldeep Nayyar was also a member of India’s delegation to the United Nations in 1996. He was appointed High Commissioner to Great Britain in 1990 and nominated to the upper house of Indian Parliament, Rajya Sabha in August 1997.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Nayyar an “intellectual giant” and recalled his work, backed by frank and fearless views.
Kuldip Nayar was an intellectual giant of our times. Frank and fearless in his views, his work spanned across many decades. His strong stand against the Emergency, public service and commitment to a better India will always be remembered. Saddened by his demise. My condolences.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 23, 2018
Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh too expressed his grief on Twitter
Saddened by the demise of senior journalist, columnist & former MP, Shri Kuldeep Nayyar. As a columnist he candidly expressed his views in his widely read column ‘Between the Lines’. His contribution to journalism will be remembered. My thoughts are with his bereaved family.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) August 23, 2018
Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley too tweeted his sadness
Saddened by the death of the veteran Journalist Sh. Kuldip Nayar. His contribution to the cause of free speech is unparalleled. He is credited with breaking some of the most exclusive news stories. Will be best remembered for his struggle against the emergency.
— Arun Jaitley (@arunjaitley) August 23, 2018
