Jaipal Reddy, a senior congress leader, who was once the Union Minister of India, passed away inside a hospital in Hyderabad earlier today. He was 77-years-old and was diagnosed with pneumonia.

Reddy was admitted to a hospital in Hyderabad, reports suggest that he passed away at 1:28 am.

Jaipal Reddy has been part of Indian politics since 1984 and is considered as a veteran in the field. Throughout his service, Reddy has served as an MP 5 times and has been selected in the Rajya Sabha 2 times.

A number of politicians in the country shared their condolences through Social Media.

Ram Nath Kovind, the President of India, said, “Sorry to hear of the passing of Shri S. Jaipal Reddy, former Union Minister. He was a thinking person’s politician and an outstanding parliamentarian. My condolences to his family and many associates.”

Prime Minister Modi tweeted, “Shri Jaipal Reddy had years of experience in public life. He was respected as an articulate speaker and effective administrator. Saddened by his demise. My thoughts are with his family and well-wishers in this hour of grief.”

The Congress Party, said, “We are saddened to hear of the passing of former Union Minister Jaipal Reddy. A senior Congress leader, he served as an LS MP 5 times, an RS MP 2 times and as an MLA 4 times. We hope his family and friends find strength in their time of grief.”

Rahul Gandhi, a leader of the Congress Party, said, “I’m sorry to hear about the sad demise of former Union Minister & veteran Congress leader Shri Jaipal Reddy Garu. An outstanding parliamentarian, great son of Telangana, he dedicated his entire life towards public service. My deepest condolences to his family & friends.”

The funeral of Jaipal Reddy will be held in Hyderabad tomorrow.