Fernandes was suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Recently, he contracted swine flu, they said.

Fernandes was India’s defence minister in the NDA government headed by Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his grief and paid tributes to the departed soul.

The Prime Minister said Fernandes represented the best of India’s political leadership.

“Frank and fearless, forthright and farsighted, he made a valuable contribution to our country. He was among the most effective voices for the rights of the poor and marginalised. Saddened by his passing away,” tweeted PM Modi.

Remembering the former minister, PM Modi said Fernandes was the fiercest trade union leader who fought for justice, the leader who could humble the mightiest of politicians at the hustings, a visionary railway minister and a great defence minister who made India safe and strong.

“During his long years in public life, George Sahab never deviated from his political ideology. He resisted the Emergency tooth and nail. His simplicity and humility were noteworthy,” Modi further said.

The Prime Minister also extended his condolences to the family and friends of the late minister.