Former Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Passes Away at 66!

Former Finance Minister and senior BJP leader Arun Jaitley passed away at AIIMS today (August 24). The 66-year-old was rushed to the hospital on August 9 following breathlessness and restlessness. AIIMS had not issued any statement on Jaitley’s health since August 10.

According to a report by the New Indian Express, Hospital sources on Tuesday said Jaitley is on life support and a multidisciplinary team of doctors is monitoring his condition.

Jaitley played a crucial role in the cabinet of Modi Government’s previous regime. He did not contest the 2019 lok sabha elections citing health reasons. In May last year, he had undergone a renal transplant at AIIMS with Railways Minister Piyush Goyal filling in his position temporarily.

Expressing his condolence, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Jaitley’s bond with BJP was unbreakable and his contribution towards India’s economic growth, strengthening defence capabilities, creating people friendly laws and enhancing trade was enormous. “With the demise of Arun Jaitley Ji, I have lost a valuable friend, whom I have had the honour of knowing for decades. His insight on issues and nuanced understanding of matters had very few parallels. He lived well, leaving us all with innumerable happy memories. We will miss him!”

President Ram Nath Kovind wrote, “Extremely saddened by the passing of Shri Arun Jaitley after battling a long illness with fortitude and dignity. A brilliant lawyer, a seasoned parliamentarian, and a distinguished Minister, he contributed immensely to nation building.”