File Picture
In a big loss to the BJP and the Prime Minister Narendra Modi government, Union Cabinet Minister Ananth Kumar passed away at the age of 59. He was reportedly suffering from cancer and had returned for New York after treatment at a cancer institute. A six time MP from South Bengaluru constituency, Kumar was in charge of two key ministries – Chemicals and fertilisers since May 2014 and parliamentary affairs since July 2016. He was one of the top BJP leaders from Karnataka.
As the news of his passing away came out tributes began to pour in from leaders across party lines
Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted his tribute
Extremely saddened by the passing away of my valued colleague and friend, Shri Ananth Kumar Ji. He was a remarkable leader, who entered public life at a young age and went on to serve society with utmost diligence and compassion. He will always be remembered for his good work.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 12, 2018
Congress president Rahul Gandhi tweeted his condolences
I’m sorry to hear about the passing of Union Minister, Shri Ananth Kumar ji, in Bengaluru, earlier this morning. My condolences to his family & friends. May his soul rest in peace. Om Shanti.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 12, 2018
Congress leader Shashi Tharoor tweeted his condolences
Profound condolences on the passing of UnionMinister @AnanthKumar_BJP at the young age of 59. He was the most pleasant, co-operative & able of Parliamentary colleagues. Our political differences never stood in the way of mutual respect & dialogue. He will be greatly missed.
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) November 12, 2018
BJP president Amit Shah tweeted his grief
I am grief stricken to learn about the untimely demise of our senior leader and union minister Shri Ananth Kumar ji. He served the nation and organisation with unparalleled zeal and dedication. Ananth ji worked tirelessly to strengthen the BJP in the state of Karnataka.
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) November 12, 2018
Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley expressed his grief in a tweet
Extremely pained by the sudden demise of Union Minister and my colleague, Shri Ananth Kumar Ji. He will always be remembered for his works as parliamentarian and a political leader. My thoughts & prayers are with his family. May God render peace to the departed soul. ॐ शांति l
— Arun Jaitley (@arunjaitley) November 12, 2018
Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh expressed shock over his demise
Absolutely shocked and pained by the demise of very senior colleague and a friend Shri Anant Kumar ji. He was a seasoned parliamentarian who served the nation in several capacities. His passion and devotion for the welfare of people was commendable. My condolences to his family.
— राजनाथ सिंह (@rajnathsingh) November 12, 2018
