Chief Minister K Rosaiah, on Thursday, expressed shock and grief over the death of senior retired IAS officer SR Sankaran.
The Chief Minister recalled the services of Sankaran as Secretary in many departments in the State and Centre and said he was loved by all for his down to earth simplicity and humane qualities.
Sankaran was also a crusader of the poor and downtrodden people's cause and fought relentlessly for their rights throughout his life.
Rosaiah said the State government used Sankaran's services to mediate with the People's War Group naxalites and he headed a team of mediators for peace talks with the naxalites then.
The Chief Minister recalled Sankaran's services in many vital departments in the State and said he was a cheerful and unassuming senior officer respected by all sections of people.
The Chief Minister conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members.