Bangalore: Karnataka Chief Minister S M Krishna on July 27 expressed shock and profound grief over the death of Vice-President Krishan Kant, saying that the nation had lost a principled leader who strived hard for establishing "Democratic socialism and quality of rights".

In a condolence message, Krishna said that Kant was a veteran freedom fighter and a tall socialist political leader who fought for political reforms and maintaining cleanliness in public life.

Governor Rama Devi has also condoled the death of Vice-President K L Krishan Kant.

In her message she described him as a "dynamic and far-sighted leader, statesman whose untimely death has been a great loss for the Democratic process and the country at large".

Krishan Kant was known for his socialist principles and brought a "gush of fresh wind in the political system in 1980's", she said in her condolence message.

Home Minister, Mallikarjun Kharge also condoled the Vice-President's death.

Meanwhile, Karnataka government declared holiday on July 27 for its offices and colleges and schools as a mark of respect to Krishan Kant who died in New Delhi.

A notification said that all functions and programmes have been cancelled following a three-day mourning.

PTI