The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh has expressed grief at the demise of Sayyed Mir Qasim, the former Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir.

In his condolence message, the Prime Minister said:

"I am deeply shocked and greatly saddened to learn about the sudden demise today of Sayyed Mir Qasim, the former Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir.

Sayyed Mir Qasim was a great nationalist who worked selflessly in public interest and for peace and development in the State of Jammu & Kashmir. Not only was he a Member of the Constituent Assembly, but was also a Member of the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly for a quarter century. He served the State and the people of Jammu & Kashmir with distinction, both as a Legislator and later on as the Chief Minister.

Sayyed Mir Qasim was a stalwart who worked hard to uphold the values of our freedom struggle and values which are embedded in our Constitution. He believed in selfless service and sacrifice. He will be remembered for willingly giving up the Chief Ministership so as to enable the return of Sheikh Abdullah to the State. Such instances are rare and this makes him stand tall among his peers.

My heart goes out to the bereaved family and I pray that the departed soul may rest in peace".