New Delhi, August 24: President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday expressed condolences on the demise of former Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, saying that his death leaves a huge void in the intellectual ecosystem.

"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," he tweeted. Arun Jaitley to be Cremated on Sunday at Nigam Bodh Ghat in Delhi at 2 PM.

President Ram  Nath Kovind's Tweet

Watch: Arun Jaitley Passes Away at 66

In another tweet, the President said: "Shri Arun Jaitley possessed a unique ability of discharging the most onerous responsibility with poise, passion and studied understanding. His passing leaves a huge void in our public life and our intellectual ecosystem. Condolences to his family and associates." Jaitley, 66, passed away on Saturday in Delhi after prolonged illness.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 24, 2019 03:30 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).