TN Governor, CM, Jaya condole Sam Manekshaw's death

Chennai, June 27 (UNI) Tamil Nadu Governor Surjit Singh Barnala, Chief Minister M Karunanidhi and AIADMK supremo and former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa today condoled the death of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw.

In his condolence message sent to Manekshaw's daughter Mrs Maya Batliwala, the Governor said ''I am deeply shocked and grieved to hear about the demise of your father. He was an architect of many military triumphs.'' His mature war strategy and motivation of forces brought laurels to India and the Indian Army, he noted.

''His death is an irreparable loss to the nation and to me particularly as he was my friend,'' the Governor said and conveyed his sincere condolences to the bereaved family, a Raj Bhavan communique said.

The Chief Minister, expressing grief over the death, said ''in his death, the nation has lost a veteran soldier and a war hero.'' In his condolence message, Mr Karunanidhi said ''our nation will fondly remember his leadership and command which guided the Indian Army to a brilliant victory during the 1971 war against Pakistan.'' Manekshaw's distinguished military career extending to about 40 years filled with heroic deeds and accomplishments would shine in the annals of military history for his leadership and excellence in military warfare, he said, conveying his condolences to the bereaved family.

In her condolence message, Ms Jayalalithaa expressed grief over the Field Marshal's death.

She said ''the decisive results achieved by the Indian Army during the 1971 Pakistan war under his able military leadership gave the nation a new sense of confidence. In recognition of his services, he was elevated to the rank of Field Marshal,'' she added.

His passing away was an irreparable loss to the nation and the Defence establishment and the people of India have lost an illustrious son, a true patriot and a person who served the nation with great distinction, she said, conveying her deepest condolences to the bereaved family.

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