PM Narendra Modi condoles Congress leader Murli Deora's demise

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today condoled the death of senior Congress leader Murli Deora and said his warm nature made him popular across party lines.

"Just yesterday I had spoken to Shri Murli Deora's family & asked about his health. Very sad to hear the unfortunate news today," he said on Twitter.

"My deepest condolences to the Deora family on Shri Murli Deora's demise. May his soul rest in peace."

"A dedicated leader, Shri Murli Deora's warm nature made him popular across party lines. News of his demise is saddening," Modi said in a series of tweets.

Union Minister Venkaiah Naidu said the country has lost a veteran Parliamentarian.

"I am deeply saddened by the demise of Murli Deora. We have lost a veteran Parliamentarian and an experienced administrator," the Parliamentary Affairs Minister said.

Former Union Minister Murli Deora passed away in Mumbai this morning after prolonged illness.

He was 77 and is survived by his wife and two sons, including former MP Milind Deora.