Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar passes away after battle with cancer

Goa : Manohar Parrikar, Goa Chief Minister and former Defence Minister, passed away at the age of 63 after losing a battle against cancer. The announcement was made by the President of India Ram Nath Kovind.

"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," President Kovind tweeted.

Later, Mr Parrikar's office had said, "Manohar Parrikar passed away today evening, after a spirited battle against cancer". His funeral will be held on Monday with a procession starting at 4 pm and people will be able to pay their last respects to the leader before that at the Kala Academy, it added.

The Central government has also announced a full day mourning on Monday. All schools and colleges in Goa will remain shut.

Manohar Parrikar's health had been fluctuating in last couple of months. The former Defence Minister had been in and out of hospital in Goa, Mumbai, Delhi and New York since February last year.

Political leaders from across the nation also expressed their grief.

"Goa BJP government was formed because of him. He also became defence minister. Again on party's request, he became the Goa Chief Minister," said Union minister Nitin Gadkari, Manohar Parrikar's long-time friend and party colleague.

"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. Respected and admired across party lines, he was one of Goa's favourite sons. My condolences to his family in this time of grief," Congress chief Rahul Gandhi tweeted.