Gandhinagar, Nov 25 (IANS): Condoling the demise of Congress veteran and Rajya Sabha member Ahmed Patel on Wednesday due to COVID-19 complications, Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat said that Patel held a special place in the people's hearts and that his demise had left an irreplaceable void in public life.

"I am deeply shocked by the sad demise of this son of Gujarat, veteran politician and Rajya Sabha member Ahmed Patel and pay my tribute to the departed. Through the best of his works, Patel gained a special place in public heart and an irreplaceable void has been created due to his demise in public life. I pray to the almighty that may his soul rest in peace," said Devvrat.

The Congress veteran died on Wednesday morning at the Medanta Hospital in Gurugram where he was undergoing treatment for COVID-19.

Paresh Dhanani, Leader of Opposition in Assembly, said: "It is the sunset of a unique personality which attracted budding personalities through his mind, deeds and his words. The true embodiment of self-control, simplicity, struggle and dedication, Ahmed Patel moved on towards the eternal life leaving many of us orphans. I pray... may God bless peace to his soul."