President, PM ,Sonia condole Sayeed's death

New Delhi, Jan 7 The death of Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mufti Muhammad Sayeed has left a huge void in the nation and in Jammu and Kashmir, President Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday.

"Heartfelt condolences on the passing away of Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mufti Muhammad Sayeed," tweeted the president, adding that Sayeed's contribution to Jammu and Kashmir and India will always be remembered.

"The contribution of Mufti Muhammad Sayeed to Jammu and Kashmir and India through long years of public service will always be remembered," Mukherjee added.

Modi said Sayeed's demise leaves a huge void in the nation.

"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," Modi tweeted.

"What stood out about Mufti sahab was his statesmanship. In his long political journey he won many admirers across the political spectrum," he added.

"Mufti sahab provided a healing touch to Jammu and Kashmir through his leadership. He will be missed by all of us. Condolences to his family and supporters," the prime minister said.

New Delhi, Jan 7 Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mufti Muhammad Sayeed's contribution as a humanist will forever be remembered and his death is a great loss to the nation, Congress president Sonia Gandhi said on Thursday.

"Muftiji's contribution as a humanist and to public life in various capacities will forever be remembered," a statement quoting Gandhi said.

She extended her condolence to Sayeed's wife and daughter Mehbooba Mufti.

"In his death, the state of Jammu and Kashmir and the nation has lost a great leader," it added.