Naveen expresses deep grief

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed deep grief over the sad demise of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

“It is great national loss today as much as a personal loss for me. I will always cherish my association with Atal Bihari Vajpayeeji as it was during my initial years in politics. He embodied a unique combination of grace, idealism and tolerance in politics. He was a statesman admired across political spectrum. His depth of vision and understanding of issues was unparalleled. He was a man of firm principles

He too stated that Vajpayee had a large heart with a special corner for Odisha, a love that was equally reciprocated by the people of Odisha. “We will miss you Vajpayeeji. May your sour rest in peace,” prayed Patnaik.

The State Government announced Friday as a Government holiday in honour of Vajpayee. All Government offices, schools, colleges, other educational institutions and banks would remain closed. 

Earlier, the Chief Minister had visited the AIIMS at Delhi and paid his last tributes to the departed soul.

In his condolence message, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said, “Vajpayeeji was a great thinker, an eminent writer and a statesman.” As Prime Minister, he had extended huge support to the Super Cyclone-affected people of Odisha, he said. 

PCC president Niranjan Patnaik and Utkal Bharat president Kharabela Swain also expressed deep grief.

“He was truly patriotic in letter and spirit. He had initiated a number of projects. Country has lost an eminent personality with his demise,” said the PCC chief.

“Like Mahatma Gandhi and Jay Prakash Narayan, Atal Bihari Vajpayee was a statesman. His contributions like AIIMS, Paradip Refinery and East Coast Railway to Odisha will always be remembered. I never expect to come in contact with such a truly great man in my life,” said Swain.