Leaders across parties in Nagaland pay tribute to Sheila Dikshit

Kohima, July 20 (MExN): The sudden demise of three-time Delhi Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Sheila Dikshit on Saturday, evoked condolences from political leaders from Nagaland cutting across party lines. Dikshit, the longest serving Chief Minister of Delhi (1998 to 2013),  passed away at a private hospital in New Delhi following a cardiac arrest on July 20. She was 81.

Taking on to the micro-blogging site Twitter, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio expressed shock and sadness over the demise and offered his tribute as well as condolences to the departed leader. “…She will be remembered as one of India's finest women politicians and for her visionary development works in Delhi, during her tenure. My deepest condolences to her family,” Rio added. 

Expressing deep shock over the demise, the Deputy Chief Minister and BJP leader, Y Patton said that Dikshit provided her abled-service to the nation. 

“I along with all rank and files of BJP Nagaland offer heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and supporters. May her soul rest in peace,” he conveyed in a condolence message. 

Former Chief Minister of Nagaland and Leader of Opposition, TR Zeliang in a condolence message also stated that Dikshit’s demise is a huge loss for Delhi and the Nation. “At this time of grief and sorrow, I extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved family and pray that Almighty God grant them strength to bear the loss,” he added. 

The sudden demise of Dikshit has shocked all the ranks and files of party, Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) president K Therie said in a condolence note. 

 “She stood like a solid rock and achieved her vision. She changed the structure of the Capital of India and because of her commitment and strong determination; India today enjoys being second to none- Metro railways, International Airports, flyovers, Roads, malls and many more giving opportunities to new generations in employment. Northeast youth have found a new home under her wing at Delhi,” he said.  

“In her demise, the nation has not only lost a great leader but the northeast has lost a parent. We share the pain with the children and family members in this painful parting. Our prayers to the Almighty God that her soul rest in peace and all rank and file of NPCC convey our deepest condolences for the family members,” he added. 

Meanwhile, the Minister of Higher & Technical Education and President, BJP Nagaland Temjen Imna Along also took to Twitter to offer his condolences. ‘Sad to hear of the passing of Sheila Dikshit, former Chief Minister of Delhi and a senior political figure. My thoughts are with her bereaved family & supporters,’ he tweeted.