President Ram Nath Kovind mourns demise of ex-Gujarat CM Keshubhai Patel

Keshubhai Patel was Gujarat’s chief minister in 1995 and again during 1998-2001

President Ram Nath Kovind on Thursday said the nation has lost a stalwart leader in the demise of former Gujarat chief minister Keshubhai Patel whose long public life was dedicated to improving the lives of millions, especially in villages.

The President said as the champion of farmers’ causes, he enjoyed an extraordinary rapport with the masses.

Also read: Gujarat's former CM Keshubhai Patel passes away

“Keshubhai Ji's dogged determination for social service and commitment to Indian ethos will remain exemplary for all. My condolences to his family and friends,” Kovind tweeted.

Patel (92), died in Ahmedabad on Thursday after a prolonged illness, family sources said. He was Gujarat’s chief minister in 1995 and again during 1998-2001.

"With the demise of Keshubhai Patel, former Gujarat chief minister, the nation has lost a stalwart leader. His long public life was dedicated to improving the lives of millions, especially in villages. As champion of farmers’ causes, he enjoyed extraordinary rapport with masses,” the president said in another tweet.