Former defence minister and BJP stalwart Jaswant Singh breathed his last on early Sunday.

This has been confirmed by the R&R Hospital, New Delhi in an official statement.

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He was 82.

“Major Jaswant Singh (Retd), former Cabinet Minister, passed away at 6.55 a.m. today. He was admitted on 25 June and was being treated for Sepsis with Multiorgan Dysfunction Syndrome,” a media report quoted the statement as saying.

“He had a cardiac arrest this morning. His Covid status is negative,” it said.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi has deeply condoled the demise of the former defence minister.

“Jaswant Singh Ji will be remembered for his unique perspective on matters of politics and society. He also contributed to the strengthening of the BJP. I will always remember our interactions. Condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti,” PM Modi tweeted.

“Spoke to Shri Manvendra Singh and expressed condolences on the unfortunate demise of Shri Jaswant Singhji. True to his nature, Jaswantji fought his illness with immense courage for the last six years,” Modi said in another tweet.

Jaswant Singh was a close aide of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and he had handled important portfolios during the late PM’s regime, including defence, external affairs and finance

He was one of the founder members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

“Jaswant Singh Ji served our nation diligently, first as a soldier and later during his long association with politics. During Atal Ji’s Government, he handled crucial portfolios and left a strong mark in the worlds of finance, defence and external affairs. Saddened by his demise,” Modi said in his condolence message.

The former Union Minister was a close aide of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee he had handled important portfolios during the late PM’s tenure and was a powerful leader of his time.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh has also condoled the veteran politician’s demise.

“Deeply pained by the passing away of veteran BJP leader and former Minister, Shri Jaswant Singhji. He served the nation in several capacities including the charge of Raksha Mantri. He distinguished himself as an effective Minister and Parliamentarian,” Defence minister Rajnath Singh tweeted.

“Shri Jaswant Singhji would be remembered for his intellectual capabilities and stellar record in service to the nation. He also played a key role in strengthening the BJP in Rajasthan. Condolences to his family and supporters in this sad hour. Om Shanti,” he added.