New Delhi, Sep 27 (IANS): Former Defence Minister Jaswant Singh passed away early Sunday, said an official statement from the R&R Hospital here. He was 82.

"Major Jaswant Singh (Retd), former Cabinet Minister, passed away at 6.55 am on Sunday. He was admitted on 25 June and was being treated for Sepsis with Multiorgan Dysfunction Syndrome. He had a cardiac arrest this morning. His Covid status is negative" said the statement.

The former Union Minister was a close aide of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee he had handled important portfolios during the late PM's tenure and was a powerful leader of his time.

"Deeply pained by the passing away of veteran BJP leader and former Minister, Shri Jaswant Singhji. He served the nation in several capacities including the charge of Raksha Mantri. He distinguished himself as an effective Minister and Parliamentarian," Defence Minister Rajnath Singh tweeted.

"Shri Jaswant Singhji would be remembered for his intellectual capabilities and a stellar record in service to the nation. He also played a key role in strengthening the BJP in Rajasthan. Condolences to his family and supporters in this sad hour. Om Shanti," he added.

Condolences have started pouring in. Speaker Om Birla also remembered Singh as an efficient politician and Army officer.