New Delhi, Aug 24 (IANS): The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has expressed deep condolence over the demise of former Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, who passed away after prolonged illness at the AIIMS here on Saturday.

In a statement jointly issued by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat and his deputy Suresh Soni, the RSS said that at a time when the nation was on the path of development, Jaitley's contributions were not only expected, but also significant.

"Arun Jaitley has breathed his last today after completing his talented and sensitive leadership," read the statement.

Jaitley's plunge into politics was through the ABVP, the student wing of RSS. He took active participation in the Delhi University Student Union elections.

"He started his social and political life right from his youth," said the statement.

The RSS also said that it acknowledged the pain and grief which Jaitley's friends and family members were going through.