Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel passed away at a hospital in early hours of Wednesday. He was suffering from complications related to COVID-19. He was 71.
The announcement of his demise was made by his son Faisal Patel.
“With profound grief & sorrow, I regret to announce the sad and untimely demise of my father, Mr. Ahmed Patel at 25/11/2020, 03:30 AM. After testing positive for COVID-19 around a month back, his health worsened further due to multiple organ failures. May Allah grant him Jannatul firdaus, inshallah,” Faisal tweeted.
He also requested well-wishers of his father to adhere to Covid-19 guidelines and avoid any mass gatherings.
Ahmed Patel had himself announced on Twitter on October 1 that he had tested positive for COVID-19 and all those who came in close contact of him should also get tested.
Grieving the loss of Ahmed Patel, President Ram Nath Kovind said that senior Congress leader combined skills of a strategist and the charm of a mass leader.
“Distressed to know that veteran Congress leader Ahmed Patel is no more. An astute Parliamentarian, Shri Patel combined the skills of a strategist and the charm of a mass leader. His amiability won him friends across party lines. My condolences to his family and friends,” the President tweeted.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took to Twitter and expressed condolences on the demise of veteran Congress leader. to say that his role in strengthening the Congress would always be remembered.
“Saddened by the demise of Ahmed Patel Ji. He spent years in public life, serving society. Known for his sharp mind, his role in strengthening the Congress Party would always be remembered. Spoke to his son Faisal and expressed condolences. May Ahmed Bhai’s soul rest in peace,” Modi tweeted.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said, “It is a sad day. Shri Ahmed Patel was a pillar of the Congress party. He lived and breathed Congress and stood with the party through its most difficult times. He was a tremendous asset. We will miss him. My love and condolences to Faisal, Mumtaz & the family.”
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also took to Twitter and condoled the demise of Ahmed Patel.
“My deepest condolences to Ahmedji’s whole family, especially Mumtaz and @mfaisalpatel. Your father’s service and commitment to our party was immeasurable. We will all miss him immensely. May his courage pass on to you and give you strength to face this tragedy,” Priyanka tweeted.
“Ahmed ji was not only a wise and experienced colleague to whom I constantly turned for advice and counsel, he was a friend who stood by us all, steadfast, loyal, and dependable to the end. His passing away leaves an immense void. May his soul rest in peace,” she added.
