'He provided a healing touch to Kashmir': From PM Modi to Kejriwal, condolences pour in for Mufti Mohammad Sayeed

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mufti Mohammed Sayeed passed away on Thursday morning at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (Aiims) where he was admitted for the past 15 days. The chief minister breathed his last around 7.30 am, Education Minister and spokesman for the Jammu and Kashmir government Nayeem Akhter said. Sayeed took over as chief minister of PDP-BJP coalition government on 1 March last year. Soon after the news of his death broke out, condolences from across the political spheres stated pouring in. President Pranab Mukherjee: Heartfelt condolences on the passing away of J&K CM Mufti Mohammad Sayeed. PM Narendra Modi: Mufti Sahab’s demise leaves a huge void in the nation and in Jammu and Kashmir, where his exemplary leadership had a major impact on people’s lives. What stood out about Mufti Sahab was his statesmanship. In his long political journey he won many admirers across political spectrum. Mufti Sahab provided a healing touch to J&K through his leadership. He’ll be missed by all of us. Condolences to his family and supporters. [caption id=“attachment_2495288” align=“alignleft” width=“380”]  Narendra Modi and Mufti Mohammed Sayeed in a file photo. AFP[/caption] Home Minister Rajnath Singh: Deeply pained to learn of Jammu and Kashmir chief minister’s demise. He was known for his love for common people, specially the underprivileged. Mufti Sayeed ji had a wonderful understanding of complex issues pertaining to J&K. He wanted to bring permanent peace to the valley. Omar Abdullah: Just heard the terrible terrible news of Mufti Sahib’s passing away. I’m shocked & deeply saddened. May he rest in peace. LK Advani: Mufti Sayeed survived several attacks on his life by Kashmiri separatists who oppose Indian rule. He was in favour of unconditional dialogue between the governments of India and Pakistan to resolve the Kashmir problem. His demise is a loss to the people of Jammu and Kashmir as he was very popular in the state. I deeply mourn Mufti Muhammad Sayeed’s passing away. May the departed soul rest in peace. Ram Madhav: Muftiji was a visionary leader who dedicated his entire life to a united strong J&K and India. His demise at a crucial juncture is saddening. Arvind Kejriwal: Very sad to hear about Shri Mufti Mohammed Sayeed’s demise. May his soul rest in peace. Heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi: Deeply pained on demise of Mufti Sahab. He was working with strong nationalistic commitment to peace and prosperity in J&K. We have lost a strong nationalistic personality, who was dedicated to development of J&K. My heartfelt condolences to his family. Milind Deora: Shocked and deeply saddened to hear about Mufti Sahab’s death. He’d visit us whenever he traveled to Mumbai. Condolences to Mehbooba and Rubaiya. An avid bridge player like my father, Mufti Sahab would call ahead of his visit to Mumbai, asking me to arrange a game of bridge for him. Rafiq Mir (PDP): Sad news for the entire nation, his demise leaves a huge void. This matter was not decided but obviously our choice is President of Party Mehbooba ji. She has worked against all odds, she is the only choice in the party. Mehboob Ali Beg (PDP): Our party’s unanimous choice is obviously Mehbooba Mufti ji. Kalraj Mishra: Demise of Mufti Mohammad Sayeed is saddening, he was a great leader. Jitendra Singh: Saddened. He had capacity to rise above the party lines and had a vision that could carry people along. Ahmed Patel: Deeply saddened to hear about the demise of Mufti Saheb,who was a fine human being and inspiring leader.