The demise of  M P Veerendra Kumar,  Rajya Sabha member, former Union Minister and Member of the country's rated news agency PTI's Board of Directors, has generated a wave of shock. 

His demise was condoled by many functionaries and leaders including Vice President Venkaiah Naidu and ex-Union Minister of State for Home, Subodh Kant Sahay.

Mr Kumar was a born socialist. He had vociferously voiced concerns for the downtrodden. Many recognised him as a champion of the cause of marginalized sections of society.

"My association with Mr. Veerandra Kumar was close for more than four decades. His death is a personal loss for me. It can never be compensated. At this hour of grief I pray for the peace of the departed soul, his family and loved ones", said Subodh Kant Sahay