Shillong, Aug 6: Meghalaya Chief Minister, Conrad K. Sangma on Tuesday conveyed his condolence at the passing away of Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, Kalaignar Muthuvel Karunanidhi.

The DMK chief and five-time Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu died at Kauvery Hospital in Chennai at 6.10 pm. The 94-year-old leader was admitted to Kauvery Hospital on July 28 after he contracted urinary tract infection and developed a high fever.

“I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing way of political stalwart and president of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Kalaignar Muthuvel Karunanidhi, On behalf of the people of Meghalaya, I, along with the family members of our late father Purno Agitok Sangma sent our deepest condolences and sympathies to Karunanidhi’s son and DMK working president, M.K. Stalin,” Conrad said in a condolence message.

He said that Karunanidhi, the DMK patriarch, was one of India’s longest serving politicians, and will be remembered for his contributions to the Tamil society and the country as a whole in terms of political movement, literature and theatre.

“Karunandhi will be remembered by the people across the political spectrum for fighting for the rights of the State governments, State autonomy and federalism. In fact, it was Karunandhi who secured the right for Chief Ministers to hoist the national flag on Independence Day,” Conrad said.

“I deeply mourn the passing away of Karunanidhi. May the departed soul rest in peace,” Conrad said.