Senior journalist and former Rajya Sabha MP Chandan Mitra passed away in Delhi late last night at the age of 65, after battling a prolonged illness.
Mitra's son also tweeted about his father's death.
Since it is already out there; Dad passed away late last night. He had been suffering for a while.
— Kushan Mitra (@kushanmitra) September 2, 2021
Remarkable just how many journalists he gave a start to. They are all part of his legacy.
— Kushan Mitra (@kushanmitra) September 2, 2021
Mitra was the editor of the Pioneer until June this year. He was also a two-time Rajya Sabha member of parliament. He first got nominated to the upper house from 2003 to 2009, after which he secured a second term on a Bharatiya Janata Party ticket in 2010.
A close aide of LK Advani, he resigned from the saffron party in 2018 to join the Trinamool Congress.
Several BJP and TMC leaders and politicians from across party lines posted their condolences on Twitter.
Shri Chandan Mitra Ji will be remembered for his intellect and insights. He distinguished himself in the world of media as well as politics. Anguished by his demise. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 2, 2021
Saddened by the demise of Shri Chandan Mitra.
— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) September 2, 2021
He will be remembered for his contribution to the world of journalism and politics. Heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.
I lost my closest friend—editor of Pioneer & former MP Chandan Mitra—this morning. We were together as students of La Martiniere & went on to St Stephen’s & Oxford. We joined journalism at the same time & shared the excitement of Ayodhya & the saffron wave. 1/2
— Swapan Dasgupta (@swapan55) September 2, 2021
Deeply saddened by this news. Chandan was my campaign manager in my successful race to be President of the St Stephen’s College Union Society, served in my Cabinet & succeeded me. We remained in touch over the years, ironically till I returned to Delhi& politics separated us. RIP https://t.co/3jCtJqVzJk
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) September 2, 2021
Shri Chandan Mitra was an outstanding journalist and his stint as a parliamentarian added to his reputation. His understanding of Hindi heartland and its history was profound. His demise leaves a void in Indian journalism. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) September 2, 2021
Anguished by the passing away Sh Chandan Mitra Ji.
— Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur) September 2, 2021
An immensely respected Editor, who led the @TheDailyPioneer & served as a Member of Parliament.
His vast experience & insightful understanding of issues always gave readers a new perspective.
A huge loss for journalism. pic.twitter.com/xUqxZwQFEY
Watch Mitra's 2012 interview with Madhu Trehan below.
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