Former chief election commissioner TN Seshan passed away in Chennai last night. 86-year old Seshan died of cardiac arrest at 9:45 PM. He was not keeping well for the past couple of years.

A 1955 batch IAS officer of the Tamil Nadu cadre, Seshan had led the Election Commission from 1990 to 1996. He held various key posts in the government including that of Defence Secretary and Cabinet Secretary.

But he gained popularity only after he took over as the Chief Election Commissioner in 1990. Known for his no-nonsense attitude, Seshan was credited with ushering in major electoral reforms during his tenure as the chief election commissioner.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condoled his demise. In a tweet, Mr Modi said, Seshan was as an outstanding civil servant who served the country with utmost diligence and integrity.

Prime Minister said, Seshan’s efforts towards electoral reforms have made our democracy stronger and more participative.

Home Minister Amit Shah said Seshan played a transformative role in reinforcing and strengthening India’s electoral institution.

BJP’s working president JP Nadda said, Seshan will always be remembered for the reforms he brought in the electoral process and the strength he gave to our democratic structure.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said, his contribution towards election reforms will be the guiding light for years to come.

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor said it was Seshan who for the first time had actually asserted the Election Commission’s autonomy and authority.

Another Congress leader Milind Deora said, Seshan was an accomplished civil servant, best remembered for reforming the Election Commission of India.

Election Commission has deeply mourned the passing away of former Chief Election Commissioner T N Seshan at Chennai late last night. A condolence meeting to pay respect to T N Seshan was held at Nirvachan Sadan in New Delhi today.

In its condolence message, the Election Commission said T N Seshan set a high benchmark for the office and became a legend in his lifetime and will always be a source of inspiration to all CECs and ECs to come.