Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan passes away

Lok Janshakti Party chief Chirag Paswan confirmed the demise of the political stalwart from Bihar.

Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan passed away late on Thursday at a hospital in New Delhi. He was 74.

Lok Janshakti Party chief Chirag Paswan confirmed the demise of the political stalwart from Bihar.

Paswan had undergone heart surgery last week. 

According to media report, he was suffering from multiple health issues, including per-existing heart conditions.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the demise of his Cabinet colleague

In a Twitter post, PM Modi said: "I am saddened beyond words. There is a void in our nation that will perhaps never be filled. Shri Ram Vilas Paswan Ji’s demise is a personal loss. I have lost a friend, valued colleague and someone who was extremely passionate to ensure every poor person leads a life of dignity."

President Ram Nath Kovind said that in the demise of Paswan, the nation had lost a visionary leader. 

"He was among the most active and longest-serving members of parliament. He was the voice of the oppressed and championed the cause of the marginalized," he said.

"A firebrand socialist in youth, mentored by the likes of Jayaprakash Narayan during anti-Emergency movement, Paswan ji had enviable rapport with masses and he ardently strove for their welfare. Condolences to his family and supporters," he added.