Bhopal, January 12: In a tragic demise, a top Congress leader in Madhya Pradesh's Chhindwara district died on Saturday morning. The deceased, Pradeep Saxena, suffered a heart attack while participating in a surya namaskar event. Saxena was rushed to the nearest hospital, where he breathed his last.

Saxena, 58, was currently serving as the vice president of Chhindwara Congress Committee. He had played an instrumental role in ensuring the party's electoral dominance in the district, a party cadre said. He had earlier also served as the head of Madhya Pradesh's Food and Supply Corporation. Kamal Nath Expands His Cabinet, Madhya Pradesh Gets First Muslim Minister in 15 Years.

Chief Minister Kamal Nath, who has worked closely with Saxena, expressed shock on his demise. On learning of his passing away, Nath, who is in Delhi, called upon the family members of Saxena to extend his condolences. The CM would also be rushing back to the state to attend the funeral.

Saxena is considered to have played a key role in Nath's nine consecutive victories from the Chhindwara Lok Sabha constituency.

Scores of Congress workers in Chhindwara have gathered outside Saxena's residence to pay their last tributes. The funeral ceremony, along with cremation, is expected to be held later in the day.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 12, 2019 12:50 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).