The CPI(M) leader and former West Bengal Chief Minister, Jyoti Basu, passed away after a prolonged illness last night. He is one of the few leaders in Indian politics who was respected by everyone, across all parties.
He has been active in politics for over 40 years now and with his passing away, it will be very difficult to find another leader of his stature in the near future.
Definitely a sad day for India for having lost one of its best leaders in politics.