By IndiaTomorrow.net,
Mumbai, 02 Dec 2014: Former union minister for minority affairs and senior Congress party leader AR Antulay (Abdur Rahman Antulay) passed away this morning. He was minister in the Congress-led UPA 1 government but was sidelined soon after his controversial comment on the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack in 2008.
Former Maharashtra chief minister Antulay had questioned the circumstances of Anti-Terrorism Squad Chief, Hemant Karkare’s death in the Mumbai terror attack on 26 Nov 2008. The party had distanced itself from his comment and soon he was removed from the union cabinet. Antulay had suggested that there should be a probe into the circumstances of Karkare’s killing.
President, Prime Minister condole Antulay’s death
President of India Pranab Mukherjee has condoled the passing away of A. R. Antulay. In his condolence message to his wife, Smt. Nargis Antulay, the President has said, “It was with profound sorrow that I learnt of the sad demise of Shri A. R. Antulay. An esteemed colleague and a dear friend, Shri Antulay served the nation in various capacities such as Union Minister, Chief Minister, Parliamentarian and Legislator. He made immense contribution towards the welfare and development of the people of the state of Maharashtra. In his passing, the nation has lost a leader, whose long years in public service will be remembered for years to come.”
“Kindly accept my heartfelt condolences and convey the same to other members of your family. I pray to the Almighty to give you and your family the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss,” he prayed.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi while condoling Antulay’s death recalled his contribution to public life and said that he was among the tall leaders of the Congress Party from Maharashtra.
