Updated on Friday, November 28, 2008, 00:00 IST

Bhubaneswar, Nov 28: Mourning the demise of the former Prime Minister V P Singh, the Orissa Assembly was adjourned today without transacting any business as a mark of respect to the departed soul.

Members observed a minute's silence in memory of Singh after Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, leader of the Opposition J B Patnaik, Rural Development Minister B B Harichandan, Speaker Kishore Mohanty and others condoled his death.

Describing the passing away of Singh as an "irreparable loss to the nation", the Chief Minister said, the late leader had contributed immensely to the nation in various capacities during his long political career.

J B Patnaik recalled his association with Singh when both were ministers at the Centre.

Harichandan said the former prime minister had gained prominence for his battle against corruption at high places. Describing Singh as protector of the poor and exploited, members of the House said despite being from a royal family, the late leader had fought for the cause of Dalits, backward and downtrodden.

Bureau Report