Veteran Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader and sitting legislator from Shahkot in Jalandhar district, Ajit Singh Kohar, passed away following a cardiac arrest on late Sunday night. He was 78.
A day before, the former minister had complained of uneasiness after which he was rushed to a private hospital in Jalandhar, where he breathed his last following a massive heart attack. Punjab Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh on Monday expressed grief over Kohar's demise, and declared a half-day government holiday as a mark of respect. Capt Amarinder, in his condolence message, described Kohar as a leader committed to the development and prosperity of his constituency, besides ensuring the welfare of all sections of the society.
Extending his heartfelt sympathies to the members of the bereaved family, relatives and friends of Kohar, Capt Amarinder prayed to the Almighty for eternal peace to the departed soul.
His predecessor and SAD patron Parkash Singh Badal and SAD president Sukhbir Badal also expressed deep shock and grief at Kohar's demise. Both leaders, in a condolence message, described Kohar as one of the tallest Akali leaders of his time who would always be remembered for his services to Punjab.