Former Union Minister Buta Singh passed away in New Delhi on Saturday at the age of 86. Singh, a senior congressional leader, was admitted to the Indian Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), where he was in a coma after suffering a brain hemorrhage. His family said he died around 7.10am.
Singh was born in Jalandhar, Punjab. He served as a deputy for Lok Sabha for eight terms of the Jalore constituency in Rajasthan. Singh was first associated with Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), but then joined Congress in the 1960s. He also served as Governor of Bihar.
President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi were among those who expressed their condolences.
Kovind said India has lost one of its longest-serving MPs. “With the passing of Shri Buta Singh, the country has lost one of the longest-serving parliamentarians with rich administrative experience. He championed the cause of the oppressed and marginalized. Condolences to his family and supporters, ”he said.
Naidu remembered Singh as a skilled administrator and parliamentarian. “Saddened to learn of the passing of Shri Buta Singh Ji. He was a capable administrator and parliamentarian. My condolences to the bereaved family members. Om Shanti! Naidu said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described him as an “experienced administrator,” and Congressional leader Rahul Gandhi said he was a loyal leader who dedicated himself to serving the country.
“Shri Buta Singh Ji was an experienced administrator and an effective voice for the welfare of the poor and downtrodden. Saddened by his passing. My condolences to his family and supporters, ”Prime Minister Modi tweeted.
“The country has lost a true public servant and a loyal leader with the death of Sardar Buta Singh Ji. He dedicated his entire life to serving the country and the welfare of the people, for which he will always be remembered, ”Gandhi said.
Singh will be cremated at the Lodhi Road crematorium in New Delhi on Saturday.
– With PTI
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