New Delhi: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday expressed sadness over the death of former Union finance minister Arun Jaitley. She said he was a politician who was "appreciated across parties". Jaitley died at AIIMS on Saturday afternoon at 12.07 pm.

"Extremely saddened at the passing away of Arun Jaitley Ji, after a battle bravely borne. An outstanding Parliamentarian & a brilliant lawyer appreciated across parties. His contribution to Indian polity will be remembered. My condolences to his wife, children, friends & admirers," Banerjee said in a statement.