Lok Sabha Speaker condoles Chandra Shekhar's demise

New Delhi, July 8 (UNI) Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath Chatterjee today expressed deep sorrow on the demise of former Prime Minister and Chairman of the Ethics Committee of Lok Sabha, Chandra Shekhar.

In his condolence message, Mr Chatterjee described Chandra Shekhar as a very respected friend and a great leader.

''In Shri Chandra Shekhar's passing away, the country has lost a leader who stood for upholding the finest values of Parliamentary Democracy. I had the privilege of being his colleague in Parliament for over three decades. I know the void created by his demise is very difficult to fill,'' Mr Chatterjee said.

The Lok Sabha Speaker visited the official residence of the former Prime Minister and paid his respects by placing a wreath on the mortal remains of the departed leader. Mr Chatterjee conveyed heartfelt condolences to the members of the bereaved family.

Chandra Shekhar died this morning at the Apollo Hospital here where he wasundergoing treatment for cancer for the past three months.

UNI