Senior BJP leader and India's second woman external affairs minister, Sushma Swaraj, passed away on Tuesday night due to a cardiac arrest. She was 67 and is survived by husband Swaraj Kaushal and daughter Bansuri. The stalwart politician had a kidney transplant in 2016 and had been on fragile health ever since which forced her out of the 2019 general election.

Reports say that around 9.30 am last night she was rushed to the AIIMS hospital Delhi but could not be saved.

Condolences are pouring in from all quarters. PM Narendra Modi said, "I can’t forget the manner in which Sushma Ji worked tirelessly as EAM in the last 5 years. Even when her health was not good, she would do everything possible to do justice to her work and remain up to date with matters of her Ministry. The spirit and commitment were unparalleled. Sushma Ji’s demise is a personal loss. She will be remembered fondly for everything that she’s done for India. My thoughts are with her family, supporters and admirers in this very unfortunate hour. Om Shanti."

"Extremely shocked to hear of the passing of Smt Sushma Swaraj. The country has lost a much-loved leader who epitomized dignity, courage & integrity in public life. Ever willing to help others, she will always be remembered for her service to the people of India," President Ramnath Kovind said.