After battling pancreatic cancer for over a year, Goa CM Manohar Parrikar passed away on Sunday, March, 17. The centre has announced a national mourning on March 18.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress President expressed their grief and condolences on Twitter.

“Shri Manohar Parrikar was an unparalleled leader. A true patriot and exceptional administrator, he was admired by all. His impeccable service to the nation will be remembered by generations. Deeply saddened by his demise. Condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti,” the PM posted.

“I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Goa CM, Shri Manohar Parrikar Ji, who bravely battled a debilitating illness for over a year. Respected and admired across party lines, he was one of Goa’s favourite sons. My condolences to his family in this time of grief,” the Congress President posted.

The search for a new leader to replace Parrikar will be conducted by the BJP-led coalition in Goa. The state’s BJP President and Rajya Sabha MP Vinay Tendulkar stated that the decision will be made by 2 pm today, March 18. The swearing-in ceremony will reportedly be held after 3 pm.

Shri Manohar Parrikar was an unparalleled leader.

A true patriot and exceptional administrator, he was admired by all. His impeccable service to the nation will be remembered by generations.

Deeply saddened by his demise. Condolences to his family and supporters.

Om Shanti. pic.twitter.com/uahXme3ifp

— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 17, 2019

I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Goa CM, Shri Manohar Parrikar Ji, who bravely battled a debilitating illness for over a year.

Respected and admired across party lines, he was one of Goa’s favourite sons.

My condolences to his family in this time of grief.

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) March 17, 2019