Parrikar was described by the veterans as a true and an unparalleled leader.
“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,” said PM Modi in his first reaction on Twitter.
He then followed up by saying that Parrikar was the builder of modern Goa. “Thanks to his affable personality and accessible nature, he remained the preferred leader of the state for years. His pro-people policies ensured Goa scales remarkable heights of progress,” Modi tweeted.
PM Modi hailed Parrikar’s tenure as Defence Minister. “India will be eternally grateful to Shri Manohar Parrikar for his tenure as our Defence Minister. When he was RM, India witnessed a series of decisions that enhanced India’s security capacities, boosted indigenous defence production and bettered the lives of ex-servicemen,” he said.
Congress president Rahul Gandhi and BJP chief Amit Shah also expressed grief over the demise of Parrikar who was suffering from a pancreatic ailment.
Describing him as "one of Goa's favourite sons", Gandhi said Parrikar was respected and admired across party lines and had bravely battled his illness for over a year.
Shah remembered him as a leader who dedicated his life to the country and ideology and said Parrikar has shown how a BJP worker "even during his toughest time, is committed to the philosophy of Nation First, Party Next and Self Last".
President Ram Nath Kovind said Parrikar was an "epitome of integrity and dedication in public life".
Senior BJP leader and Water Resources Minister Nitin Gadkari said since his initial days in politics, Parrikar was his good friend.