Tadepalli/Chennai: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy expressed condolences over the death of former chief election commissioner, TN Seshan (86). Former chief election commissioner, who spearheaded the electoral reforms in the country in the 1990s, died in Chennai on Sunday, following a cardiac arrest.

In his condolence message YS Jagan said that TN Seshan was an embodiment of honesty, fearlessness, and dedication towards his work. He said that TN Seshan's contribution to the society as a public servant was immeasurable.

He demonstrated and proved how the power of the Indian Election Commission could be used to build a powerful democratic system, he stated in his message. The Chief Minister said that TN Seshan's name will be forever etched in golden letters in the annals of Indian democratic history.

An IAS officer who rose to become Cabinet Secretary, TN Seshan became the 10th Chief Election Commissioner of India after retirement, serving from December 12, 1990 to December 11, 1996.

The legendary Seshan was not in good health for the past couple of years and he passed away at about 9.30pmat his residence. Known for his no-nonsense attitude, he was largely confined to his home here for the past several years due to old age. Former CEC SY Quraishi said on Twitter,"Sad to announce that TN Seshan passed away.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah also condoled the demise of former Chief Election Commissioner TN Seshan, calling him an outstanding civil servant and torchbearer of democracy.

Modi, Amit Shah condole death of former CEC TN Seshan

"TN Seshan was an outstanding civil servant. He served India with utmost diligence and integrity. His efforts towards electoral reforms have made our democracy stronger and more participative. Pained by his demise. Om Shanti," Modi tweeted. Offering his condolence, the Home Minister said: "Saddened by the demise of former Chief Election Commissioner, Shri T N Seshan ji." Recalling that Seshan "played a transformative role in reforming and strengthening India's electoral institution", Shah said the nation will always remember him as a true "torchbearer of democracy". "My prayers are with his family," he said in his tweets.

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