Chief minister Parkash Singh Badal on Saturday expressed grief over the demise of Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray. In a condolence message, Badal described Thackeray as a leader of the masses, who worked relentlessly to safeguard the rights of Maharashtrians till his last breath.
He said a void had been created in national politics, which was hard to fill. Badal expressed sympathy with the bereaved family.

Deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal also expressed grief at the demise.

In his message, Sukhbir said the nation had lost a leader, who would be remembered for giving a distinct identity to regional parties.

Local bodies minister Chunni Lal Bhagat also expressed sorrow at Thackeray's demise.