Date:02/08/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/08/02/stories/2008080254760600.htm

Tamil Nadu

Barnala, Karunanidhi and leaders condole Surjeet’s death

Special Correspondent

CHENNAI: Governor Surjit Singh Barnala, Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi and leaders of various political parties condoled the death of CPI (M) leader Harkishan Singh Surjeet.

In his message, the Governor said Surjeet was a staunch nationalist and took active part in the freedom movement. “He was a multifaceted personality, a great Parliamentarian who dedicated himself to the cause of the farmers and the downtrodden. He was a close friend of mine and our association started right from the freedom movement,” Mr Barnala said.

Recalling his visits to Surjeet’s house in Delhi along with Murasoli Maran to discuss various issues, Chief Minister Karunanidhi said he had met him even at midnights. “He used to meet us at Tamil Nadu House. He had a special affection for me.”

Mr. Karunanidhi said age had not deterred him from serving the people.

“Loss to party and the country”

“His death is a loss to the party and the country,” he said.

AIADMK general secretary Jayalalithaa said in his passing away India had lost an illustrious Parliamentarian, great humanist and a true patriot who untiringly served the country.

“When he was at the helm of the CPI (M) for an uninterrupted 13 years, his role was that of a king-maker in Parliamentary politics, mending and assembling broad coalitions. He was known for his steadfast opposition to communalism,” she said. PMK leader S. Ramadoss said Surjeet fought for the rights of the peasants and working class till his last breath.

“He never compromised with the communal forces and was respected by all,” he added.

MDMK general secretary Vaiko said he had the opportunity of moving closely with Surjeet for 25 years and earned his love and affection. “He attended the MDMK’s conference in Tiruchi in 1995 and the political conference in Madurai in 1996. I would call him Lion of Erode (Periyar) born in Punjab,” he said.

CPI (M) State secretary N. Varadharajan said party flags would fly half mast for three days. CPI State secretary D. Pandian said Surjeet embodied sacrifice and service in public life.

Viduthalai Chiruthaikal Katchi leader Thol Thirumavalavan said under the leadership of Surjeet, the CPI (M) achieved a great victory in uniting all democratic forces against the communal forces.