Former Punjab Chief Minister and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) patron, Parkash Singh Badal, has passed away at Mohali's Fortis Hospital. The Union Government has declared two days of national mourning following the demise of the stalwart Akali leader.

Former Punjab CM and Shiromani Akali Dal patron Parkash Singh Badal passes away at Fortis Hospital in Mohali, confirms the PA of his son and party president Sukhbir Singh Badal.

Five times CM was admitted to the ICU of the private hospital over a week ago following complaints of breathing difficulties.

On April 16, Badal was brought to the hospital with acute exacerbation of bronchial asthma. Hospital sources said to PTI that his health condition suddenly deteriorated during the day. Fortis Hospital said that Badal breathed his last around 8 pm on Tuesday.

"He had been on NIV (non-invasive ventilation) and HFNC (high-flow nasal cannula) support along with medical management. He was being managed under Prof (Dr) Digambar Behera along with the Pulmonology and critical care team supported by Cardiology," the hospital bulletin said.

"Despite appropriate medical management S Parkash Singh Badal succumbed to his illness. Fortis Hospital Mohali deeply condoles the death of S Parkash Singh Badal," it added.

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Meanwhile, tributes have started pouring in on various social media platforms following his sudden demise.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered him as a "colossal figure of Indian politics, and a remarkable statesman" whereas Defence Minister Rajnath Singh remembered his old friend saying that the SAD leader made "several noteworthy contributions towards the welfare of farmers and other weaker sections of our society."

Extremely saddened by the passing away of Shri Parkash Singh Badal Ji. He was a colossal figure of Indian politics, and a remarkable statesman who contributed greatly to our nation. He worked tirelessly for the progress of Punjab and anchored the state through critical times. pic.twitter.com/scx2K7KMCq

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 25, 2023

"The news of the demise of former Punjab CM Parkash Singh Badal is very sad. He was a towering personality of Indian politics whose contribution to the development of Punjab is immense and will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family and supporters," BJP president JP Nadda said in a heartfelt condolence to the Akali leader.

Badal Sahab was the son of soil who remained connected to his roots, all his life. I fondly remember my interactions with him on several issues.

I’m deeply anguished by his demise. His demise is a personal loss to me. My heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family and…— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) April 25, 2023

Former Punjab CM and now a BJP leader, Captain Amarinder Singh said Badal was " respected by everyone cutting across party lines."

Deeply saddened over the demise of S. Parkash Singh Badal. My profound condolences to @officeofssbadal and the entire family.

Badal Sahab was respected by everyone cutting across party lines. May Waheguru ji grant peace to the departed soul.