PM, Somnath condole Krishan Kumar's death

New Delhi, May 29 (UNI) Prime Minister Manmohan today expressed sorrow over the demise of veteran journalist Krishan Kumar describing him as among the pioneering influences on Indian journalism.

The 86-year-old journalist, who had been ailing for some time, died here this morning.

In a message here, Dr Singh said Mr Kumar's ''incisive and objective reporting on strategic, defence and Parliament related issues conformed to the highest values of journalistic ethics and excellence''.

''He rendered yeomen service as the founder editor of India's first defence journal 'Vikrant' and also as a distinguished parliamentary correspondent,'' the Prime Minister added.

Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath Chatterjee also condoled the death of Mr Kumar, describing him as a man who steadfastly believed in professional ethics of journalism.

''Krishan Kumar covered the parliamentary proceedings for more than five decades and his valuable contribution to journalism would be remembered for long,'' Mr Chatterjee said.

The Speaker also conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.

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