BASU-PM 2 LAST

The Prime Minister, who had called on the ailing Marxist
leader in a Kolkata hospital on January 7, said throughout his
long career Basu's first priority remained the welfare of
ordinary citizens, the workers and the peasants.
"I have personally had a very long association with Shri
Basu. On many occasions in my career, I turned to him for his
sagacious advice on all matters, whether they related to West
Bengal or to issues of national importance.
"His advice was statesmanlike but always pragmatic and
based on unshakable values that he championed throughout his
political career," Singh said.
"I feel a deep sense of personal sadness at the passing
away of this great patriot, political luminary and
intellectual," Singh said conveying his heartfelt condolences
to the members of the bereaved family and to late leader's
countless comrades, friends, admirers and followers. PTI