New Delhi, May 6 (IANS): Former Union Minister and Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) Chief Ajit Singh died of Covid on Thursday morning. He was 82. Singh was undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Gurugram after he tested positive for coronavirus.

Ajit Singh was the son of former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh. He served as union minister in several governments. Prime Minister Naendra Modi, former Congress Chief Rahul Gandhi and BJP chief J.P. Nadda expressed condolences on the death of former Union Minister.

At 9.10 a.m., his son Jayant Chaudhary tweeted in Hindi, "Chaudhary Sahib nahi rahe (Chaudhary Sahib is no more).

In a statement the family said, "Chaudhary Ajit singh ji was diagnosed as Covid positive on the 20th April. He battled his condition till the very end and breathed his last today morning, the 6th of May, 2021".

"Throughout his life journey, Chaudhary Sahib was loved and respected by many. He, in turn, cherished this bond with all of you and gave his best consideration and efforts for your welfare," the statement from the family said.

Singh's family appealed to people to pay respect from home following Covid protocols.

"As our Nation confronts the horrific pandemic, it is our humble request to all those who wish to pay their respects, to please stay at home as far as possible. We must observe all safety protocols to keep ourselves and everyone around us healthy and safe. This would be the best way to honour Chaudhary Sahib as well as all those COVID warriors who are working night and day to protect us," the family appealed.