New Delhi, June 2 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday condoled the passing of senior leader Yogeshbhai Patel, describing him as a "unique companion" of his public life and a true leader of the masses.

The eight-time BJP MLA from Vadodara's Manjalpur constituency passed away at the age of 79 following a prolonged illness.

In a heartfelt tribute on X, Prime Minister Modi stated that the senior legislator always championed public causes with deep commitment and integrity.

"I am saddened by the news of the passing of Shri Yogeshbhai Patel, a senior member of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly. With his demise, I have lost a unique companion from my public life. Shri Yogeshbhai was a true leader of the people in every sense. He always ...