Former President Pranab Mukherjee passes away, tributes pour in 

Former President Pranab Mukherjee passes away, announces his son Abhijit Mukherjee.

Rahu Gandhi tweeted, “With great sadness, the nation receives the news of the unfortunate demise of our former President Shri Pranab Mukherjee. I join the country in paying homage to him. My deepest condolences to the bereaved family and friends.”

The Congress too posted a moving tribute on Twitter : The journey of Bharat Ratna Pranab Mukherjee’s life is very inspiring and his contribution to the building of the country will always be remembered.

As soon as the news of his demise spread, tributes and condolence messages by political leaders and people as well started pouring in on various social media platforms. President Kovind wrote on Twitter:

“Sad to hear that former President Shri Pranab Mukherjee is no more. His demise is passing of an era. A colossus in public life, he served Mother India with the spirit of a sage. The nation mourns losing one of its worthiest sons. Condolences to his family, friends & all citizens.”

In a series of tweets, the prime minister said Mukherjee in his decades-long political journey made long-lasting contributions in key economic and strategic ministries and that he was an outstanding parliamentarian, always well-prepared, extremely articulate as well as witty. The prime minister recalled that Mukherjee, as the then President when he became prime minister for the first time, always supported and guided him.

"I was new to Delhi in 2014. From Day 1, I was blessed to have the guidance, support and blessings of Shri Pranab Mukherjee. I will always cherish my interactions with him. Condolences to his family, friends, admirers and supporters across India. Om Shanti," Modi said. In his tweets, Modi also posted his pictures with Mukherjee, including one in which he is seen touching the then president's feet.

Earlier on Monday, condition of former President Pranab Mukherjee declined on and he suffered a septic shock due to his lung infection, the Army's Research and Referral Hospital said.

Doctors attending on the 84-year-old Mukherjee said he continues to be in a deep coma and is on ventilator support. Mukherjee is being managed by a team of specialists, they had added.