New Delhi, June 8 (IANS) Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Monday described the passing of AICC Secretary Suraj Hegde as a great loss to the Congress family, saying he worked tirelessly to strengthen the organisation and mentor young leaders.

Taking to social media platform X, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said, “The passing away of Suraj Hegde ji is a great loss to all of us in the Congress family. He worked tirelessly to strengthen the organisation and mentor young leaders. We will all remember him with affection, respect and gratitude. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and loved ones.”

Congress leader and Rajasthan MLA Sachin Pilot also expressed grief over Hegde’s demise.

In a condolence message, Pilot said, “The news of the sudden demise of Shri Suraj Hegde, former Secretary of the All India Congress Committee and former In-charge of the Indian Youth Congress, is deeply saddening. His untimely passing is an irreparable loss to the Congress family. His dedication and sincere loyalty to the organisation will always be remembered.”

“May the Almighty grant the departed soul a place at His holy feet and provide the bereaved family with the strength to bear this profound grief. Om Shanti,” he further stated.

Supriya Shrinate, Chairperson of the Congress party’s social media and digital platforms wing, also termed Hegde’s death an irreparable loss to the party.

“Deeply saddened by the untimely demise of Suraj Hegde ji – a genuine human being, a committed Congressman, a friend. He was deeply committed to the values of the Congress party and was always willing to help with a smile. His demise is an irreparable loss to the Congress party. My sincerest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. Travel well onwards my friend,” she said.

According to party sources, AICC Secretary and Karnataka Government’s Guarantee Committee Vice-Chairman Suraj Hegde passed away late on Sunday night.

He was around 55 years old and reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest. He died at a private hospital, sources said.

Hegde, who had previously served as the In-charge of the Indian Youth Congress, was the grandson of former Karnataka Chief Minister Devaraj Urs. He was widely regarded within the party as a dedicated organisational leader who played a key role in mentoring young workers and strengthening the Congress structure at various levels.

–IANS

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