Sheila Dikshit, three-time Delhi Chief Minister, dies at 81

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The sudden demise of three-time (1998-2013) Delhi Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Sheila Dikshit on Saturday has evoked condolences from political leaders cutting across party lines. She passed away at a private hospital here following a cardiac arrest.
President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered their condolences. Kovind said she had transformed the national capital in her tenure.
“Sad to hear of the passing of Sheila Dikshit, former Chief Minister of Delhi and a senior political figure. Her term in office was a period of momentous transformation of the capital for which she will be remembered. Condolences to her family and associates,” the President said in a tweet. Modi too said that Dikshit made a noteworthy contribution to Delhi’s development.
“Deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit. Blessed with a warm and affable personality, she made a noteworthy contribution to Delhi’s development. Condolences to her family and supporters,” Modi tweeted.
Former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said, “I am sorry to know about the sudden demise of Sheila Dikshitji. We were opponents in politics, but friends in personal life. She was a fine human being.”

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also mourned the death of his predecessor, saying her contribution to the city will always be remembered and she will be missed.
Kejriwal, who brought an end to Dikshit’s 15-year-long stint in power in 2013, said that though the two were political rivals and their views were opposite on many issues, he always found her “to be a warm and affectionate person”.
IANS