Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami, DMK Working President MK Stalin and other political leaders today condoled the death of former Lok Sabha Speaker and CPI(M) veteran Somnath Chatterjee.
The 89-year old Chatterjee passed away at a private hospital in Kolkata this morning following multiple organ failure.
In a statement, Palaniswami expressed grief over the veteran's demise and recalled Chatterjee's long association with CPI(M), besides his 10-time stint as MP.
"He had the distinction of being the longest serving Parliamentarian and was known for placing strongly his views during debates in the House," he said.
"As Speaker of Lok Sabha from June 2004 to May 2009, he efficiently handled the proceedings and was respected by all members of Parliament," he added.
He recalled Chatterjee being awarded with the "Best Parliamentarian" honour in 1996.
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The Chief Minister expressed his sympathies with the bereaved family members of Chatterjee and prayed that his soul rested in peace.
Stalin, also Leader of Opposition in the state, expressed 'shock' over the veteran's death and described his demise as a "great loss" for the country.
He was a "close friend" of the late DMK President and his father M Karunanidhi, Stalin said in a statement, adding, Chatterjee always upheld the ethos of Parliamentary democracy.
He conducted Parliamentary proceedings without any party considerations, he added.
"He allowed healthy political views and constructive debate in the Parliament and protected the democratic values. His demise is a great loss to democracy and the country," he said.
The ruling AIADMK also condoled the death of the veteran leader.
AIADMK Coordinator O Panneerselvam and Joint Coordinator Palaniswami condoled Chatterjee's demise in a party statement, recalling his contributions as an MP and later as the Speaker of the Lok Sabha.
They hailed his public service and 'deep insight' while dealing with problems.
TNCC President Su Thirunavukkarasar, AMMK leader TTV Dhinakaran and PMK founder S Ramadoss also condoled Chatterjee's demise.