Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 13 (UNI) Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Friday condoled the demise of former Union Minister and one of the country's most prominent socialist leaders, Sharad Yadav.

The Chief Minister tweeted that "Sharad Yadav was an icon of socialist politics, who stood firm for democratic values. His passing is a great loss to Indian politics. Heartfelt condolences to his family and supporters. #SharadYadav."

The 75-year-old socialist leader died after collapsing at his home in Delhi on Thursday.