Sahebganj/Ranchi, BJP's former Rajmahal MLA Arun Mandal has passed away.

He was 65. Family members said that as the health condition of the former MLA worsened he was admitted at a nursing home in Malda of West Bengal on Friday but as the situation failed to improve he was being rushed to Kolkata in an ambulance on Sunday night but unfortunately he died on the way.

Chief Minister Hemant Soren has expressed his grief over the passing away of the former MLA. He has prayed to the almighty to rest the soul in peace and give strength to the family members to overcome the burden of loss.

Jharkhand Assembly Speaker Ravindranath Mahto has also expressed his grief over the passing away of the former MLA. He said that the late Arun Mandal will be always remembered for his simplicity and humble nature.

State BJP president Deepak Prakash, Leader of the legislature wing of BJP Babulal Marandi and other leaders have also expressed their grief over the passing of their party colleague.

Arun Mandal had got elected from the Rajmahal seat in 2000 and 2009 as BJP candidate.

(Agencies)