Arun Jaitley no more: Leaders pay tribute, PM Modi calls him a political giant

Politicians paid tributes to BJP leader Arun Jaitley, who passed away on Saturday (August 24)  in AIIMS hospital, New Delhi. Jaitley was admitted to the hospital due to breathing problems on August 9 and his health was being examined by a team of endocrinologist, cardiologist and nephrologist. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences, saying he was a political giant. 

Arun Jaitley Ji was a political giant, towering intellectual and legal luminary. He was an articulate leader who made a lasting contribution to India. His passing away is very saddening. Spoke to his wife Sangeeta Ji as well as son Rohan, and expressed condolences. Om Shanti.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 24, 2019

President Ram Nath Kovind said Jaitley's death has left a "huge void in our public life and our intellectual ecosystem".

Shri Arun Jaitley possessed a unique ability of discharging the most onerous responsibility with poise, passion and studied understanding.

His passing leaves a huge void in our public life and our intellectual ecosystem. Condolences to his family and associates #PresidentKovind

— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) August 24, 2019

BJP president and Union home minister Amit Shah said Jaitley's death was a personal loss.

"I am deeply saddened by the death of Arun Jaitley, Jaitley's departure is a personal loss for me. As him, I have lost not only a senior leader of the organization but also an integral member of the family whose support and guidance I have been receiving for years (sic)," Shah tweeted.

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal called Jaitley's untimely demise a huge loss for the nation.

Untimely demise of former FM and senior leader Sh Arun Jaitley ji is a huge loss to the nation. A legal luminary and an experienced political leader known for his governance skills will be missed by the country. Thoughts and prayers with his family in this moment of grief. RIP

— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) August 24, 2019