New Delhi, June 8 -- Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday expressed grief over the sudden demise of All India Congress Committee (AICC) functionary Suraj Hegde.

In a post on X, Gandhi praised Hegde's contributions to the party and his guidance to young members, describing his loss as irreplaceable to the Congress family.

Gandhi's post read: "Deeply saddened by the passing of Suraj Hegde ji. As AICC Secretary and former in charge of the Indian Youth Congress, he worked with a deep belief in the party's ideals. The Youth Congress was not just an assignment for him.

He further added that "He mentored young Indians who today carry forward the Congress's commitment to justice and democracy. His demise is an irreparable loss to the Congres...