President of India condoles passing away of BG Verghese

The President of India, Pranab Mukherjee has condoled the passing away of eminent journalist BG Verghese.

Verghese, a Ramon Magsaysay award winner, passed away in Guragon on Tuesday. He was 87 years old.

Earlier in the day, eminent leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice President Hamid Ansari, finance minister Arun Jaitley and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah also expressed grief at the eminent journalist's demise.

In a condolence message to his wife, Jamila Verghese, the President has said, ''I am saddened to known about the passing away of your husband, Shri BG Verghese.

''Shri Verghese was one of India's most eminent journalists and a relentless champion of freedom of the press. A prolific writer, Shri Verghese made significant contribution to the world of journalism and was honoured with the Ramon Magsaysay award.

In his death, the nation has lost an outstanding scholar, influential opinion maker and a crusader for civil rights. His life and writings will continue to be a source of inspiration and guiding light for journalists as well as the people of our country.

''Please convey my heartfelt condolences to all members of the bereaved family and his countless friends. I pray to the Almighty to give you and your family the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss.''

The official twitter account of the Rashtrapati Bhavan posted the President's condolence.