The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has condoled the passing away of Ms. Jayaraman Jayalalithaa, Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.

In a condolence message to Shri Ch. Vidyasagar Rao, the Governor of Tamil Nadu, the President has said, "I am extremely sad to learn about the sad demise of Ms. Jayaram Jayalalithaa, Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.

Popularly known as ‘Amma’and ‘Puratchi Thalaivi’, Ms. Jayalalithaa was a talented film star as well as avisionary leader and administrator who distinguished herself through her political acumen and people friendly programs. She was regarded one of India’s most charismatic and popular leaders.

Aprolific and versatile film actress, she appeared in films of different genres and performed a wide variety of roles.She served the country with distinction in different capacities, including as Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), Member of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, first Woman Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Assembly and as five times Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.She was the youngest ever and the second woman to be elected Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.

I had opportunity to interact closely with her both when we were together in the Rajya Sabha and during her different tenures as Chief Minister. She was progressive in her thought andpro-active in pursuing the issues that were close to her heart, such as the empowerment of women and welfare of children.

As Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Ms. Jayalalithaa introduced a number of pro-poor schemes in various fields, including education, food security, provision of safe drinking water, the girl childetc. Her life was dedicated to thesocio-economic transformation of Tamil Nadu and its people.

In her passing away, the nation has lost an icon who was loved and admired by millions. Her contribution to the progress and development of Tamil Nadu will be long remembered.

Please convey my heartfelt condolences to her family, members of her party and fans. I pray to the Almighty to give them the strength and courage to bear this irreparableloss”.

This release issued at 0040 hrs.