New Delhi: As the nation is shocked by the demise of former Defence Minister Gorge Fernandes, tributes and condolences poured in on social media as people recall his valuable contribution to Indian politics. As per reports, Fernandes passed away today morning after being bedridden for the past few years. “We are saddened to announce the passing of Shri George Fernandes early this morning. Mr. Fernandes was attended to at his home by a Max Healthcare team, which found him unresponsive and declared him dead at 06:42AM on January 29th, 2019,” read the official statement from Max Healthcare Authorities. As soon as the news came into light, various political leaders including PM Narendra Modi, Rahul Gandhi Subramanian Swamy, Rajnath Singh, Smriti Irani, Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot and others took to Twitter and expressed grief on the same.

PM Modi took to Twitter and condoled the demise of former Union minister and termed him as ‘the best of India’s political leadership. “George Sahab represented the best of India’s political leadership. Frank and fearless, forthright and farsighted, he made a valuable contribution to our country. He (George) was among the most effective voices for the rights of the poor and marginalised. Saddened by his passing away,” PM Modi tweeted.

“When we think of Mr. George Fernandes, we remember most notably the fiery trade union leader who fought for justice, the leader who could humble the mightiest of politicians at the hustings, a visionary Railway Minister and a great Defence Minister who made India safe and strong,” PM wrote further.

PM Modi also lauded Fernandes’ dedication for his political ideology. “During his long years in public life, George Sahab never deviated from his political ideology. He resisted the Emergency tooth and nail. His simplicity and humility were noteworthy. My thoughts are with his family, friends and lakhs of people grieving. May his soul rest in peace,” he said further.

Here's how various political leaders showered tributes for Fernandes on Twitter:





















Fernandes had served as the Defence Minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee's government and his last stint as an active politician was as a Rajya Sabha MP in August 2009 and July 2010.