The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, has expressed grief at the demise of veteran CPI leader, Hirendranath Mukherjee.

Recalling the eminent Parliamentary career of Shri Mukherjee, the Prime Minister paid rich tribute to his brilliant career, which included nearly a quarter century as a Member of Parliament representing the Communist Party of India. The Prime Minister described Mr. Mukherjee as one of the most distinguished parliamentarians of our time, whose oratorical skills not only influenced the course of many debates in Parliament, but were also appreciated by Pandit Nehru. A man of great commitment and personal values, Shri Mukherjee was a national leader of great standing. Such qualities are worthy of emulation in the present day, Dr. Manmohan Singh said.

In the passing of Shri Hirendranath Mukherjee, the Prime Minister said, the nation has lost a vital link with the early years of our Parliamentary democracy, Dr. Manmohan Singh added.