NEW DELHI: Eminent journalist and author
Kuldip Nayar, who fiercely fought for press freedom and protecting civil liberties, passed away early today. He was 95.
Nayar died at around 12.30 AM at the Escorts hospital, his elder son
Sudhir Nayar said.
He was suffering from pneumonia and was admitted to the hospital five days back, Sudhir Nayar said.
The journalist is survived by his wife and two sons. His last rites will be performed at Lodhi crematorium at 1 PM.
Nayar, known as a crusader for civil rights and press freedom, worked in several newspapers including as the editor in the Statesman.
He had also served as the Indian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom in the 1990s and was nominated to the Rajya Sabha in 1997. He was arrested during the Emergency.
Nayar was also known for his efforts to improve frosty relationship between India and Pakistan including leading peace activists to light candles on the Independence days of Pakistan and India at the Attari-Wagah border near Amritsar.
Prime Minister
Narendra Modi condoled the demise of Nayar, saying his strong stand against the Emergency, public service and commitment to the country will always be remembered.
"Kuldip Nayar was an intellectual giant of our times. Frank and fearless in his views, his work spanned across many decades. His strong stand against the Emergency, public service and commitment to a better India will always be remembered. Saddened by his demise. My condolences," Modi said in a tweet.
Editor of the Week magazine
Sachidanand Murthy remembered Nayar's contribution in fiercely protecting press freedom and civil liberties.
"He had protested the infamous Defamation Bill which was brought by the
Rajiv Gandhi government in late 1980s. He had also worked tirelessly to ensure protection of civil liberties in India," said Murthy.
The journalist is survived by his wife and two sons
