Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed grief on the demise of Veteran Sri Lankan politician and Tamil National Alliance (TNA) leader R Sampanthan. In a social media post, Mr Modi said, he will always cherish fond memories of meetings with him. He said, R Sampanthan relentlessly pursued a life of peace, security, equality, justice and dignity for the Tamil nationals of Sri Lanka. Mr. Modi said, he will be deeply missed by his friends and followers in Sri Lanka and India. The Prime Minister expressed condolences to the family and friends of R. Sampanthan. The veteran leader was elected six times to the Sri Lankan Parliament and also served as Leader of Opposition.

Expressing grief, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar recalled many meetings and conversations with Mr Sampathan over several decades. The Minister said, Mr. Sampathan dedicated his entire life fighting for equality, dignity and justice for Tamils in Sri Lanka.