Former Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit passes away at 81

New Delhi: Indian politician and former chief minister of Delhi Sheila Dikshit passed away at 3:30pm today (July 20). Three-time Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit was admitted to Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, New Delhi, on Friday, after she suffered cardiac arrhythmia. She was put on life support immediately, but failed to recover and passed away in hospital, reports stated.

Dikshit, who was born in 1938, served as Delhi chief minister for three terms from 1998 to 2013. Last year, the 81-year-old leader underwent heart surgery in France in November 2012 and also underwent treatment for an infection several times over the years.

In January she was appointed as president of the city unit after the incumbent Ajay Maken stepped down from the post citing health issues. Despite being an octogenarian, she led the party in Lok Sabha poll and contested against Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari from the North East Delhi seat.

A number of politicians, including Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, National Conference's Omar Abdullah, Peoples Democratic Party's Mehbooba expressed their grief and offered their condolences.

Just now got to know about the extremely terrible news about the passing away of Mrs Sheila Dikshit ji. It is a huge loss for Delhi and her contribution will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to her family members. May her soul rest in peace

— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) July 20, 2019

I’m devastated to hear about the passing away of Shiela Dikshit Ji, a beloved daughter of the Congress Party, with whom I shared a close personal bond.

My condolences to her family & the citizens of Delhi, whom she served selflessly as a 3 term CM, in this time of great grief.

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 20, 2019

We regret to hear of the passing of Smt Sheila Dikshit. Lifelong congresswoman and as three time CM of Delhi she transformed the face of Delhi. Our condolences to her family and friends. Hope they find strength in this time of grief. pic.twitter.com/oNHy23BpAL

— Congress (@INCIndia) July 20, 2019

Just heard about the tragic demise of @SheilaDikshit ji. What terrible terrible news. I’ve always known her as a very warm & affectionate lady. She did wonders for Delhi as CM & will be greatly missed by all who knew her. May her soul rest in peace.

— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) July 20, 2019

Shocked to hear about the sudden demise of Smt Sheila Dixit. She was one of the tallest leaders in Congress & transformed Delhi in her tenure as CM. My deepest condolences to her family & loved ones.

— Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) July 20, 2019

Deeply pained to hear the sad and sudden demise of Sheila Dixit Ji Ex CM Delhi.. May God bless her soul and give her eternal peace..
Delhi will miss you Ma’am, u were a mother figure in my life...#RIPSheilaDixit

— Manoj Tiwari (@ManojTiwariMP) July 20, 2019