Azad, J

Srinagar, July 23 (UNI) Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad and his Cabinet colleagues have condoled the demise of NC legislator Ghulam Mohammad Jan who passed away in the winter capital today after brief illness.

In a condolence message, he expressed deep shock and grief over the death of Jan, who represented Poonch Haveli constituency in the state Assembly. Mr Azad described him as an able legislator who eloquently raised public issues in the House.

The Chief Minister said the demise of Jan has left a number of his friends and colleagues in a state of bereavement and conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.

Born in 1947 in Sawajin village of Gagrian Mandi area in Poonch district, Jan was National Conference vice president, Poonch Zone, and remained associated with various social organisations.

He championed the cause of Pahari speaking people, was elected to Assembly for the first time in 1996 from Poonch Haveli on the NC ticket and retained the seat in the 2002 elections.

Legislative Council Chairman G N Lone Hanjoora, Assembly Speaker Tara Chand, Pradesh Congress Committee President and Education Minister Peerzada Mohammad Sayeed, all Cabinet Ministers, CPI(M) leader Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami and legislators have expressed deep grief over the sad and untimely demise of Jan.

They said the late leader always rendered stupendous service for the people and the state.

UNI