India loses reformer of Electoral System; Former CEC TN Seshan passes away in Chennai

Chennai, November 11: One of the administrative pillars who gave us free and fair elections passed away at 86. Former chief election commissioner TN Seshan passed away in Chennai on Sunday night. 86-year old Seshan died of cardiac arrest at 9:45 PM. A 1955 batch IAS officer of the Tamil Nadu cadre, Seshan had led the Election Commission from 1990 to 1996. He held various key posts in the government including that of Defence Secretary and Cabinet Secretary.

 

H took over as the Chief Election Commissioner in 1990. Seshan was credited with ushering in major electoral reforms during his tenure as the chief election commissioner.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condoled his demise. In a tweet, PM Modi said, Seshan was an outstanding civil servant who served the country with utmost diligence and integrity. Prime Minister said, Seshan's efforts towards electoral reforms have made our democracy stronger and more participative. 

Spokesperson of Election Commission of India said, “The Election Commission of India deeply mourns the passing away of Sh TN Seshan. Expressing his condolences, CEC Sh Sunil Arora said “T N Seshan was a legend. He will always be a source of inspiration to us and all CECs & ECs to come.”

Home Minister Amit Shah said Seshan played a transformative role in reinforcing and strengthening India's electoral institution. Saddened by the demise of former Chief Election Commissioner, Shri T N Seshan ji. He played a transformative role in reforming and strengthening India’s electoral institution. The nation will always remember him as a true torchbearer of democracy. My prayers are with his family.

 

BJP's working president JP Nadda said, "Saddened by the demise of former Chief Election Commissioner of India, Sh. T.N.Seshan. He will always be remembered for the reforms he brought in the electoral process and the strength he gave to our democratic structure.  My thoughts & prayers are with his family and followers."

 

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said, his contribution towards election reforms will be the guiding light for years to come.

He was not keeping well for the past couple of years.