The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has condoled the passing away of Congress leader Shri Prasanta Nandi.

In a message to his wife, Smt. Usha Nandi, the President has said, "I am saddened to know about the passing away of your husband, Shri PrasantaNandi.

Shri Nandi was a close friend and memories of my long association with him will always be cherished. As a Congress leader who served in various capacities such as District Congress President and General Secretary of Pradesh Congress Committee, he made valuable contribution to the welfare of the people of the State of Bengal, particularly North Bengal. In his death, we have lost a great leader and social worker who was always in touch with the grassroots of society.

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

This release issued at 1700 hrs.