Barnala, MK, among others condole Minister's death

Chennai, May 20 (UNI) Tamil Nadu Governor Surjit Singh Barnala, Chief Minister M Karunanidhi and leaders of various political parties today condoled the sudden demise of State Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Minister P T R Palanivel Rajan.

Mr Barnala said in a message that PTR was known for his simplicity and was easily approachable by the people. He had also held the office of the Speaker of Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and was well versed in English and Tamil, he recalled.

Expressing deep shock at the death of party veteran, Mr Karunanidhi said he had several pleasant memories of PTR, particularly his humility, principles and nobility.

He said PTR had preferred the HR and CE portfolio to the Speaker's post but unfortunately nature had cut short his desire to serve the portfolio.

Tamil Nadu Congress Committee(TNCC) President M Krishnasamy said PTR made a mark for himself while holding various responsibilities in public life, including the Assembly Speaker post.

His sudden demise was not only an irreparable loss to the DMK but to the entire Tamil Nadu, he said.

Expressing condolences, CPI(M) State Unit Secretary N Varadharajan praised PTR as a noble person, who excelled in public life. Having been elected to the Assembly four times, PTR discharged his duties as the Assembly Speaker during 1996-2001 in an exemplary manner, he said.

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