PM Leads Nation In Mourning The Passing Away Of Legendary Sprinter Milkha Singh

New Delhi, June 19 (TNA) Prime minister Narendra Modi on Saturday led the nation in mourning the demise of legendary Indian sprinter Milkha Singh who died of post-Covid complications at the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh around midnight.

"In the passing away of Shri Milkha Singh Ji, we have lost a colossal sportsperson, who captured the nation's imagination and had a special place in the hearts of countless Indians. His inspiring personality endeared himself to millions. Anguished by his passing away," PM Modi tweeted.

"I had spoken to Shri Milkha Singh Ji just a few days ago. Little did I know that it would be our last conversation. Several budding athletes will derive strength from his life journey. My condolences to his family and many admirers all over the world," he added in another tweet.

The 91-year-old had tested positive for COVID-19 on May 19 but was in home isolation at his Chandigarh residence after revealing that he was asymptomatic. However, a few days later on May 24, the legendary athlete was admitted to the ICU of Mohali's Fortis hospital due to "COVID pneumonia". He was then shifted to PGIMER in Chandigarh on June 3.

His death came five days after his wife Nirmal also died due to post-Covid complications. "It is with extreme sadness that we would like to inform you that Milkha Singh Ji passed away at 11.30 pm. on the 18th of June 2021," his family announced in a late-night statement.

"He fought hard but God has his ways and it was perhaps true love and companionship that both our mother Nirmal ji and now Dad have passed away in a matter of 5 days," the emotional statement further added.