New Delhi, Mar 30 (IANS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday appreciated former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for avoiding large gathering on uncle's death.

In a tweet, Modi paid condolences to the family.

"Condolences to you and the entire family, Omar Abdullah. May his soul rest in peace. In this hour of grief, your call to avoid any large gathering is appreciable and will strengthen India's fight against COVID-19," Modi said.

Abdullah on Sunday shared that his uncle Mohd Ali Mattoo has passed away after a brief illness.

"At this difficult time the family appeals to everyone to respect the guidelines to not gather either at his residence or the graveyard. Your prayers from your homes will give peace to his soul."

Abdullah was detained on August 5, 2109, just before the government scrapped provisions of Article 370 on Kashmir, and released on March 23.

India has been under a lockdown from March 23 midnight due to coronavirus.