New Delhi, Feb 20 (IANS): Leaders from across the political spectrum, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Wednesday condoled the demise of renowned Hindi author and critic Namwar Singh.

The 92-year-old, who was a recipient of the Sahitya Akademi Award passed away late on Tuesday at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Trauma Centre.

"He gave a new direction to Hindi literature with his criticism," Modi said.

Union Minister Rajnath Singh called the demise a "personal loss". "Despite disagreements..., he knew how to respect and give people space. His passing away is an irreplaceable loss for the Hindi world and our society."

Communist Party of India (Marxist) Sitram Yechury said the author and critic will continue to hold a "very special place in the literary world. His work and contribution will be inspiring many generations to come".

Swaraj India National President Yogendra Yadav said Namwar Singh gave a special place to criticism and also to the Hindi language.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Congress leader Sanjay Nirupam and former Uttarakhand Chief Minister Harish Rawat also condoled Singh's death.