Ram Jethmalani, Veteran Lawyer and Former Union Minister, Dies At 95

Ram Jethmalani, one of India's finest lawyers and a former union minister, died this morning at his home in Delhi. He was 95. Mr Jethmalani, a six-time Rajya Sabha member, served as a Union Minister in the United Front and NDA governments. He joined the BJP-led NDA ministry in 1998 and then again in October 1999. However, he quit the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government in July 2000. Mr Jethmalani had also served as the chairman of the Bar Council of India.

Mr Jethmalani had not been keeping well for the last few months, his son Mahesh told news agency PTI. The legal veteran died at 7:45 am on Sunday. His last rites will be performed this evening at the Lodhi road crematorium in Delhi.

Several BJP leaders including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited Mr Jethmalani's home this morning to pay their last respects. Many have described Jethmalani's death as a loss for the legal fraternity as he was one of the most respected lawyers in the country.

"In the passing away of Shri Ram Jethmalani Ji, India has lost an exceptional lawyer and iconic public figure who made rich contributions both in the Court and Parliament. He was witty, courageous and never shied away from boldly expressing himself on any subject," Modi said on Twitter.

He added "I consider myself fortunate to have got numerous opportunities to interact with Shri Ram Jethmalani Ji. In these sad moments, my condolences to his family, friends and many admirers. He may not be here but his pioneering work will live on! Om Shanti."

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, "Extremely saddened at the passing away of legendary lawyer Ram Jethmalani ji. An institution in himself, he shaped criminal law in post-independence India. His void would never be filled and his name will be written in golden words in legal history."

Condolence messages from other prominent leaders also started pouring in moments after Jethmalani's death.

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