Indian leaders pay tributes to Desmond Tutu

Tributes have been pouring in from Indian leaders on the demise of human rights defender and anti-apartheid fighter Archbishop Desmond Tutu of South Africa.

Desmond Tutu died in Johannesburg today at the age of 90.

His demise was announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa. The president’s statement said, “The passing of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu is another chapter of bereavement in our nation's farewell to a generation of outstanding South Africans who have bequeathed us a liberated South Africa.”

Tutu raised his voice against apartheid in South Africa along with Nelson Mandela coined the term Rainbow Nation to describe the country, when Mandela became its first black President.

India’s President Ramnath Kovind tweeted, “Deeply saddened by Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s demise. Influenced by Gandhiji, he brought spiritual values to the anti-apartheid struggle and upheld noblest ideals of humanity. His life will inspire generations. Condolences to his followers in South Africa and across the globe.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a tweet, “Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu was a guiding light for countless people globally. His emphasis on human dignity and equality will be forever remembered. I am deeply saddened by his demise, and extend my heartfelt condolences to all his admirers. May his soul rest in peace.”

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said in a tweet, “Archbishop Desmond Tutu was the voice of the voiceless. He played a key role in steering society towards better days and held a special place in the hearts of people across the world. I deeply mourn his demise and offer my deepest condolences to his family and followers.”

“My condolences on the passing of Archbishop Desmond Tutu. He was a champion of the anti-apartheid movement and a Gandhian. Such great heroes of social justice will always be a source of inspiration to all of us across the world,” tweeted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.

The Indian and South African teams also paid tributes to Desmond Tutu by observing silence, before the start of the day’s play in the test match between the two countries.