The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh has expressed deep grief over the sad demise of Smt. Nandini Sathpathy, former Chief Minister of Orissa and Union Minister.

In a letter to her son, Shri Tathagata Satpathy, the Prime Minister said, "A prominent and popular leader of our public life, Smt. Sathpathy had a distinguished record of service to the nation. A close associate of Smt. Indira Gandhi, former Prime Minister of India, she endeared herself to the people of our country by her calibre and talent as an able organizer and leader. She had the distinction of becoming the first woman Chief Minister of Orissa and in that capacity took bold measures to streamline administration and ensure its efficiency. She will be long remembered for her courageous steps in expanding the scope of land reforms in Orissa. She not only excelled in the rough and tumble of politics but also made a name for herself as an outstanding writer and poet. Her numerous creative endeavours contributed to enrich the field of Oriya literature. In her unfortunate passing away, the country in general and Orissa in particular have lost a leader with a progressive world-view and a prominent litterateur.

Gursharan joins me in praying for peace for the departed soul. I convey my heartfelt condolences to the members of her bereaved family, numerous associates, friends and admirers."