Leaders cutting across party lines condole Paswan's death

Leaders cutting across political lines remembered former Union minister and LJP founder Ram Vilas Paswan as someone who fought for the rights and welfare of the poor, deprived and backwards.
President Ram Nath Kovind said Paswan was among the most active and longest-serving MPs. "He was the voice of the oppressed, and championed the cause of the marginalised," the President said.
Vice President Venkaiah Naidu said Paswan was an exemplary leader who served the people and nation till his last breath.
Home minister Amit Shah said, "I am deeply saddened due to the demise of Ram Vilas Paswan who struggled for the welfare and rights of the poor and deprived. In his political life, he always gave priority to national interest and public welfare. There is a vacuum in Indian politics due to his demise." BJP veteran L K Advani recalled Paswan as "an outstanding parliamentarian" and for being active in politics for almost five decades.
Congress president Sonia Gandhi recalled Paswan as a "towering personality" who stood with the cause of social justice and empowerment of the most marginalised and he will be forever remembered for "asserting the cause of social and political equity".
BJP chief J P Nadda said Paswan always fought for the rights of the poor, backward and deprived and dedicated his life for their welfare.
Bihar CM Nitish Kumar said Paswan's demise "is an irreparable loss to the Indian politics" while BJP's Sushil Modi said he was not just a Dalit leader as "after becoming a leader, he carried all castes together."