Vajpayee's death irreparable loss to nation: Haryana CM

Chandigarh, Aug 16:  Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Thursday mourned the demise of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and described it as an irreparable loss to the nation, its polity, and the BJP.

Vajpayee breathed his last at the AIIMS in Delhi where he was admitted nine weeks ago and was put on life-support system. He was 93.

In his condolence message, the Chief Minister said: "A powerful orator, parliamentarian of unmatched debating skills, an able administrator, and a statesman of rare foresight, his contribution to the country and its economy as the Prime Minister of India will remain etched in golden letters."

"His undiluted commitment and unending zeal to take the country to greater heights made him roll out economic reforms and earned him the Pokhran repute which put the country on the road to nuclear energy."

Vajpayee was a towering figure in the world of letters, politics and public service. In his death, the country has lost a versatile genius who always stood for the cause of the poor and the downtrodden, the Chief Minister added.