Basu's death a severe blow to Left, democratic movement: West Bengal CM

West Bengal chief minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee today said that in the death of Jyoti Basu, the country had lost a great leader and the Left and democratic movement suffered a severe blow.

"He was our guardian," Bhattacharjee said in his condolence statement in front of reporters at the party headquarters in Alimuddin street.
      
Bhattacharjee said, "We are deeply saddened by the death of our revered leader Jyoti Basu known as a living legend."
       
Basu, he said, was respected by all sections of the people, both home and abroad. "He will be ever remembered for his contribution to the country".
     
Bhattacharjee said Basu had been at the forefront of communist movement since the beginning of 1940. He played a very significant role in organising the Left and democratic movement all over the country.
         
"His role in the formation of Left front government in West Bengal is well known," the chief minister said.
         
Basu had led the Left Front government for consecutive five terms.