Veteran journalist Kuldip Nayar passes away at age of 95

Veteran journalist, author and human rights activist, Kuldip Nayar, passed away in New Delhi today. He was 95. Nayar, a former editor of the Indian Express, was also the author of 15 books including “Beyond the Lines”, “India after Nehru” and “Emergency Retold”. During Emergency, he was jailed under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act for leading a protest against the excesses of the administration. In 2015, he was honoured with ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ for his contribution to journalism at the eighth edition of the Ramnath Goenka Excellence awards. His last rites will be performed at 1 p.m. today at Lodhi crematorium.
Nayar also served as High Commissioner of India to the UKin 1990 and as a member of the Rajya Sabha.
President Ram Nath Kovind condoled the death of Kuldip Nayar, a determined champion of democracy during the Emergency. President in a tweet said readers will miss him.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sadness over the death of Kuldip Nayar. In a tweet, Mr. Modi said Frank and fearless views of Mr. Nayar and his work spanned across many decades. He said Mr. Nayar’s strong stand against the Emergency, public service and commitment to a better India will always be remembered.
Minister of Information and Broadcasting Col Rajyavardhan Rathore said he is saddened by the demise of veteran journalist Kuldip Nayar. He said Mr. Nayar, a scholar, a prolific author and former MP, has left behind a rich legacy in the field of journalism.