Political leaders condole Gopinath Munde's death

New Delhi, June 3: Leaders cutting across party lines on Tuesday condoled the death of rural development minister

, describing his demise as shocking and sudden.

Munde was killed in a car accident on Tuesday morning, rendering a setback to the Narendra Modi government barely a week after he took charge.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said: "I am shocked to know about sudden demise of my colleague Gopinath Munde. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family."

Similar reactions poured in from other ministers.

Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi said in the sad demise of Munde, the country has lost an able and dedicated leader.

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray condoled the death of Union Minister Gopinath Munde and described him as an 'outstanding' politician.

"I had friendly relations with him (Gopinath Munde) from a long time. It feels very bad that an outstanding politician like him expired so suddenly," Thackeray told reporters.

"As far as Gopinath Munde as an individual is concerned, it is a loss to the politics of Maharashtra," he said.

Thackeray said it was unfortunate that the senior BJP leader expired at a time when he got a big responsibility.

"His career had started once again after 10 years. He got a big portfolio as a Union minister (at the Centre) and he expired so suddenly. It was very unfortunate," Thackeray added.

Thackeray also extended condolences to the family of Munde on behalf of his party and family.

Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh said following the sudden demise of the rural development minister, the nation has lost a promising leader with a vision for taking the country to great heights.

Nationalist Congress Party supremo Sharad Pawar also condoled Munde's sudden death, saying it was a big loss for the rural sector.

Pawar said Munde's knowledge about problems of rural India made him a great public servant.

Janata Dal-United leader Sharad Yadav said: "He was my very old friend, devastated by this news. Nation had high hopes from him".

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut said Munde's death was an irreparable loss for the BJP as well as the Shiv Sena.

Narmada Bachao Andolan leader Medha Patkar tweeted: "Mundeji's demise is shocking. Maharashtra has lost a leader sensitive to the issue of working class, OBCs and farmers."

IANS