New Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday mourned the demise of former Uttarakhand chief minister Bhuvan Chandra Khanduri, who passed away in Dehradun after a prolonged illness.

The veteran BJP leader and former Union minister was 91.

In a post on X, President Murmu described the news of Khanduri’s death as deeply saddening and lauded his journey from military service to public life.

“After rendering distinguished service in the Indian Army, he set an example of honesty, simplicity, transparency and development-oriented politics in public life,” the President said.

She added that his dedication towards development, good governance and public welfare in both India and Uttarakhand would always be remembered. Murmu also extended condolences to his family members and admirers.

Prime Minister Modi, while expressing grief, said Khanduri made significant contributions both as a soldier and as a political leader.

The prime minister highlighted Khanduri’s commitment to the progress of Uttarakhand, saying it was clearly reflected during his tenure as chief minister. Modi also praised his work as Union minister for road transport and highways, noting that he played an important role in improving road connectivity across the country.

“In this hour of grief, my condolences are with his family members and supporters. Om Shanti!” Modi wrote on X.

Khanduri passed away around 11 am in Dehradun, according to his daughter and Uttarakhand Assembly Speaker Ritu Khanduri Bhushan. He had been battling age-related health complications and had been hospitalised several times in recent months.

READ MORE: Dr Sofia Banu’s mission to make science serve society

Before joining politics, Khanduri served in the Indian Army and retired with the rank of Major General. He served twice as the chief minister of Uttarakhand and was also a Union minister in the government led by former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, where he handled the road transport and highways portfolio.