Former Bihar-Jharkhand Governor Rama Jois passes way

Bengaluru, Feb 16: Former Governor of Bihar and Jharkhand M Rama Jois died here on Tuesday after prolonged illness.

A former Rajya Sabha MP, the 88-year-old legal luminary who had also served as the Chief Justice of Punjab and Haryana High Court, was suffering from age related ailments.

Born on July 27,1932 at Shivamogga, Mandagadde Rama Jois did his BA and Law degree.

He was associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh from the beginning.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday condoled the death of former Bihar and Jharkhand governor M Rama Jois, describing him as a towering intellectual and jurist who was admired for his rich intellect and contributions towards making India''s democratic fabric stronger.

"Justice (Retd.) M. Rama Jois was a towering intellectual and jurist. He was admired for his rich intellect and contributions towards making India''s democratic fabric stronger. Saddened by his demise. My thoughts are with his family and admirers in this sad hour. Om Shanti," Modi tweeted.

Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa expressed grief over the demise. "Deeply saddened by the demise of Sri Rama Jois, a retired judge. He had also served as a governor and a Rajya Sabha MP. I pray to God to give his family strength to bear the loss. May his soul rest in peace. Om Shanti," he tweeted.

In his condolence message, BJP President J P Nadda said Jois served selflessly for the nation and left his deep imprint on Judiciary, Executive and legislative fields.

"He made a lasting contribution to Indian judiciary. His efforts in restoring democracy during the 1975 emergency will always be remembered," Union Home Minister Amit Shah said.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said his book 'The Legal and Constitutional History of India' is a treatise.

His 'Dharma: the Global Ethic' is a classic.

"A great mind," she said.

Condoling the death, Karnataka Minister for Primary and Secondary Education S Suresh Kumar said in a tweet, "Justice M Rama Jois is no more. He passed away at 7.30 am today.May his soul rest in peace."

Udupi-Chikkamagaluru MP, Shobha Karandlaje too expressed her condolences.