New Delhi: Former Union Minister Jaswant Singh, who was a minister in Atal Behari Vajpayee’s government, died of cardiac arrest at 6.55 am today. He was admitted to the Army Hospital (Research and Referral) here on June 25 and was being treated for Sepsis with Multiorgan Dysfunction Syndrome and effects of old severe head injury. The hospital stated that despite the best efforts of the attending team of specialists to resuscitate him, he could not be revived. His COVID status was negative.
Singh, who was born on January 3, 1938 in Jasol village of Pachpadra tehsil in Barmer, Rajasthan, had also served the Indian Army as a Major and was a veteran of 1962 and 1965 wars, was an astute diplomat who had held positions of finance, Defence as well as Foreign minister in the Vajpayee government.
However, when he wanted to contest election in 2014, he was denied the ticket by his party, the Bharatiya Janata Party. Hehad then resigned from the party, and contested as an Independent candidate from Barmer.
Offering his condolences, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a series of tweets, “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. 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.”
– globalbihari bureau
