The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has condoled the passing away of veteran Parliamentarian, educationist and philanthropist, Dr. Akhilesh Das.

In a message to his wife, Smt. Alka Das, the President has said, "I am sad to learn about the passing away of your husband, Dr. Akhilesh Das, a friend and colleague for long years.

A veteran Parliamentarian, educationist and philanthropist, Dr. Das served the nation in various capacities including as Union Minister of State in the Ministry of Steel. As Mayor of Lucknow, Dr. Das contributed extensively in the development of the city and acquired the reputation of being an able administrator. In his passing away, the nation has lost a well known public figure, whose services shall be remembered for long.

Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I pray to the Almighty to give you and all members of your family the strength to bear this irreparable loss”.

This release issued at 1300 hrs.