President Pranab Mukherjee condoles death of Congress leader Balram Jakhar

NEW DELHI: President Pranab Mukherjee today condoled the death of veteran Congress leader and former Lok Sabha Speaker Balram Jakhar.

Jakhar passed away here today. He was 92.

"Sad to learn about the passing away of Dr. Balram Jakhar, colleague and dear friend of long years. The nation will always remember his valuable contributions and pursuit of excellence in public life," President wrote on micro-blogging site twitter.

Jakhar served as Deputy Minister Cooperation, Irrigation and Power in Punjab between 1973-77 and then Leader of Opposition in the Assembly between 1977 and 1979.

Jakhar was a four-time MP in Lok Sabha starting from his election in the seventh Lok Sabha in 1980. He was again elected in 1984, 1991 and 1998.