"Basu did not go gentle into good night," says Sonia Gandhi

New Delhi, Jan 17 (ANI): Congress president and United Progressive Alliance chairperson Sonia Gandhi on Sunday condoled the death of veteran Marxist leader Jyoti Basu and said that he did not go gentle into good night.

In her condolence message to Basu's son Chandan, Sonia Gandhi said: "I am deeply saddened by the passing of your beloved father. Jyoti Basu did not go gentle into good night-he fought bravely until his last breath just he did throughout his life. And what a rich fulfilled and glorious life he had! He served this country with whole hearted dedication for over half a century."

Sonia described Basu as a crusader against communalism and a patriot who always stood for the cause of the nation.

"He was a tireless crusader against communalism, fundamentalism, a warrior for social justice and equality and for the eradication of poverty, a true patriot who always put the national interest above all edge," she stated in her condolence message.

She also stated: "Basu was a towering figure in our national life, whose noble vision, superb judgement and depth of experience we all valued greatly.

She also recalled Basu's contribution in the formation of UPA government at the centre in 2004. (ANI)