Srinagar October 12:(KNS) Ghulam Nabi Azad, Leader of Opposition, Rajya Sabha, expressed his heartfelt grief on the passing away of former Minister and senior congress leader Mohammad Sharief Niaz.

"He was not only a person of unimpeachable integrity but also a hardworking Congress leader. Besides being a family member, he was a trustworthy public representative. He was always down to earth and a true source of inspiration. Though initially he was a teacher, but later he preferred to serve his people as a social activist and contested elections to represent the people of state in general and people of Chenab valley in particular. Being my cousin, his sudden demise is a personal loss to me & has also left a vacuum in the party." Said Mr. Azad.

Mr. Azad also expressed his sympathy and solidarity with the bereaved family. He prayed Almighty to give strength and courage to members of the family to bear this irreparable loss and also prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul in heaven.9KNS)