Congress MP Rajeev Satav succumbs to COVID-19

Pune:Indian National Congress' Rajya Sabha MP Rajeev Satav succumbed to novel coronavirus at a private hospital here on Sunday.

Satav, 47, was tested positive for the virus on April 22 and had also recovered, however, his condition deteriorated and was put on a ventilator support.

The Congress parliamentarian was being treated at Jahangir Hospital here. "He expired in wee hours today," hospital sources said.

The Congress party said it was deeply saddened by Satav's demise. "His unwavering dedication towards the nation & the party carried out with pure simplicity will be greatly missed. Our condolences to his family, friends & followers. May he rest in peace," the grand-old party tweeted.

Satav was considered as a close aide of Congress MP Rahul Gandhi. Sources said Mr Gandhi was in constant touch with the hospital administration during Satav's treatment. A team of doctors from Lilavati hospital, Mumbai were treating him.

Terming it a 'big loss', Mr Gandhi said Satav was a leader with huge potential. "I’m very sad at the loss of my friend Rajeev Satav. He was a leader with huge potential who embodied the ideals of the Congress. It’s a big loss for us all. My condolences and love to his family," Mr Gandhi tweeted.

Satav, son of former congress state president Rajni Satav, began his political career as Panchayat Samiti member for a period of 5 years from 2002-2007. After this he served as Zilla Parishad member and later Krushi Sanapati and MLA from Kalamanuri Assembly constituency in 2009. Satav won the Lok Sabha polls in 2014 from Hingoli Lok Sabha constituency of state's Marathwada region.

He did not contest the 2019 general polls, however, was later elected for the Rajya Sabha. Satav has also served as AICC in-charge of Gujarat and president of Youth Congress.(UNI)