George Fernandes, former defence minister of the Atal Bihar Vajpayee government and a anti-Emergency crusader, died on Tuesday morning from a prolonged illness. He was 88 years old.
Condolences poured in from all quarters as the news of his death broke. Politicians, cutting across party lines, united in remembering his life and work.
From Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Congress president Rahul Gandhi, leaders took to social media to speak fondly of Fernandes. Here’s what they said.
Narendra Modi
George Sahab represented the best of India’s political leadership.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 29, 2019
Frank and fearless, forthright and farsighted, he made a valuable contribution to our country. He was among the most effective voices for the rights of the poor and marginalised.
Saddened by his passing away.
When we think of Mr. George Fernandes, we remember most notably the fiery trade union leader who fought for justice, the leader who could humble the mightiest of politicians at the hustings, a visionary Railway Minister and a great Defence Minister who made India safe and strong.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 29, 2019
During his long years in public life, George Sahab never deviated from his political ideology. He resisted the Emergency tooth and nail. His simplicity and humility were noteworthy. My thoughts are with his family, friends and lakhs of people grieving. May his soul rest in peace.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 29, 2019
Rahul Gandhi
Mamata Banerjee
Very saddened at the passing away of former Defence Minister and much admired trade unionist, George Fernandes Ji. I have known him for decades. My condolences to his family and admirers
— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) January 29, 2019
Lalu Prasad Yadav
Extremely saddened to hear about the demise of socialist leader, fighter & former Defence Minister Shri. #GeorgeFernandes Sahab.
— Lalu Prasad Yadav (@laluprasadrjd) January 29, 2019
I extend my deep condolences to his family and May God rest his soul in peace. We will miss him
Shashi Tharoor
I spent one evening with George Fernandes in NY & was hugely impressed by his ideals, decency& integrity. The fiery trade unionist of my childhood had mellowed into the statesman& effective Minister. His passing away at 88 marks the end of an era. RIP https://t.co/157xBZpJ6b
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) January 29, 2019
Suresh Prabhu
Saddened by the demise of #GeorgeFernandes ji - a stalwart of Indian politics, an able administrator and above all, a people’s person.
— Suresh Prabhu (@sureshpprabhu) January 29, 2019
I was fortunate to be recipient of his love, affection, guidance for several years. Was in Atal ji’s cabinet with him and was also in NDA steering commitee when he was it’s Convener, travelled with him in many parts of India and learnt many things... #GeorgeFernandes
— Suresh Prabhu (@sureshpprabhu) January 29, 2019
A great leader, constant fighter, crusader, incredible organiser, revolutionary, trade unionist who was worshipped by workers, internationally recognised for his untiring work. #GeorgeFernandes
— Suresh Prabhu (@sureshpprabhu) January 29, 2019
Rajnath Singh
Rajnath Singh: #GeorgeFernandes ji served the nation in several capacities &held key portfolios like Defence&Railways at different times. He led many labour movements&fought against the injustice towards them. His tenure as Def Minister was outstanding.May his soul rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/ucM9S6rrpH
— ANI (@ANI) January 29, 2019
Abhishek Manu Singhvi
"One should learn from the past, but one should not live in the past. My concern is to look to the future, learn from the past, and deal with the present."
— Abhishek Singhvi (@DrAMSinghvi) January 29, 2019
- #GeorgeFernandes
The national has lost a veteran political fighter. May his soul rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/i0frvozoYV
Nitin Gadkari
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on #GeorgeFernandes: I offer condolences at his passing away. He committed his life to the country. He fought for justice for trade unions. I considered him an icon. pic.twitter.com/gf42Kxg1Yj
— ANI (@ANI) January 29, 2019
Omar Abdullah
Rest in peace George Fernandes Sahib. You were a tireless crusader fighting for the voiceless, the marginalised & for those that needed someone in their corner. You called a spade a spade & did so unabashedly. You were always a friend & well wisher of the people of J&K. God speed
— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) January 29, 2019
Subramanian Swamy
Very sad to hear about George Fernandes’ demise. He was a very good friend in his later years. Earlier we had ideological. differences due to his being socialist and I for market based economy but we were united in opposing TDK and residual Nehru family.
— Subramanian Swamy (@Swamy39) January 29, 2019
Sachin Pilot
Saddened to learn about the demise of George Fernandes, former Defence minister, my condolences to the family and prayers for the departed soul
— Sachin Pilot (@SachinPilot) January 29, 2019
Ashok Gehlot
Heartfelt condolences on the passing away of former Defence Minister Sh. George Fernandes. My thoughts and prayers are with his family...May his soul rest in peace.
— Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) January 29, 2019