President Pranab Mukherjee condoles passing away of JB Patnaik

NEW DELHI: President Pranab Mukherjee today condoled the death of former Odisha Chief Minister JB Patnaik, saying the nation has lost an eminent leader whose service will be always remembered.

In his condolence message to Patnaik's wife Jayanti, the President said he was saddened to learn about the passing away of Patnaik, a friend and colleague of long years.

Mukherjee said as a Chief Minister, Union Minister and Governor of Assam, Patnaik had made immense contribution for the welfare and development of the people.

"In his death, the nation has lost an eminent leader whose service to the nation will be always remembered.

"Please accept my heartfelt condolences and convey the same to the rest of your family members. I pray to the Almighty to give you and other members of your family the strength to bear this irreparable loss," he said in the message.

Patnaik, 89, died in Tirupati early today.