Ravi Shankar Prasad condoles Jayalalithaa's death

NEW DELHI: Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad today condoled the demise of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa, terming it as a "huge setback" for the democracy.

"Under her charismatic leadership, Tamil Nadu witnessed fast social and economic transformation. She shared a deep emotional bonding with her followers.

"Her pro-people initiatives reflected her extra-ordinary commitment for the well being of common people," Prasad said in a statement.

Prasad, who is also the Electronics and IT minister, said the demise of the popular AIADMK leader is a loss for the entire nation.

"With profound grief, I wish to convey my deepest condolences on the demise of popular Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Selvi J Jayalalithaa. It is an irreparable loss not only for Tamil Nadu but also for the entire nation ...

"Demise of a popular mass leader like Selvi J Jayalalithaa is a huge setback for our democracy. At this hour, may God give strength to her followers to withstand this," the minister said.