Senior BJP Leader Sushil Kumar Modi Dies at 72, Prime Minister Expresses Condolences

Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar, Sushil Kumar Modi, passed away on Monday night at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi. Modi, aged 72, had been battling cancer for the last six months, a fight he had publicly disclosed in April. His political career spanned several decades, during which he played a pivotal role in the development and success of the BJP in Bihar.

Modi's tenure as Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar was marked by two significant periods, first from 2005 to 2013 and then from 2017 to 2020. His demise has elicited a wave of condolences from political leaders across the spectrum, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who highlighted his invaluable contribution to the party's growth in Bihar. The Prime Minister also noted Modi's opposition to the Emergency, his involvement in student politics, and his commendable work as an administrator.

The loss of Sushil Kumar Modi is mourned not only by his party but also by leaders from various political backgrounds. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed that Modi's passing was a personal loss and emphasized the vacuum it creates in both the national and Bihar political landscape. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Bihar BJP President Samrat Chaudhry echoed similar sentiments, acknowledging Modi's dedication and significant contributions to the state's development.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav also paid their respects, highlighting the broad spectrum of respect Modi commanded. His political journey saw him serving as an MLA, MLC, and member of both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Notably, Modi was instrumental in the passage of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), marking a key moment in his administrative career.

According to hospital sources, Sushil Kumar Modi breathed his last at around 9:45 pm on Monday. Plans for his cremation have been scheduled for Tuesday in Patna. This announcement comes after Modi took to social media last month to share his health struggles with the public, expressing gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi and reaffirming his dedication to the country, Bihar, and his party.

The BJP state unit described his death as an irreparable loss for both Bihar and the party at large. Throughout his career, Modi was known for his hard work, sociability, and deep understanding of political issues. His leadership skills and administrative acumen were widely recognized among colleagues and opponents alike.

Sushil Kumar Modi's legacy is marked by his commitment to public service and his role in strengthening the BJP's foundation in Bihar. As tributes continue to pour in, it is clear that his impact on Indian politics will be remembered for years to come.