Veteran journalist and author Vinod Mehta passed away after prolonged illness in the Capital on Sunday.

Mr. Mehta, 72, who had founded the Outlook Magazine and served as its Editor-in-Chief, last held the post of editorial Chairman of the publication.

An eminent political commentator, Mr. Mehta was served as the editor of several publications, including The Pioneer, The Sunday Observer, The Independent and The Indian Post.

Condoling his death, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted,

Frank & direct in his opinions, Vinod Mehta will be remembered as a fine journalist & writer. Condolences to his family on his demise. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) >March 8, 2015

Condolences also poured in from political and journalistic circles, and from readers who expressed their grief at the passing away of the eminent journalist.

May you rest in peace Vinod Mehta. God Bless — barkha dutt (@BDUTT) >March 8, 2015

An iconic editor and friend passes away. Brave and irreverent till the end. Vinod Mehta RIP. — Rajdeep Sardesai (@sardesairajdeep) >March 8, 2015

My much loved >@Outlookindia boss Vinod Mehta is gone: we will miss you greatly Vinod, and India will miss your irreverent valiant voice. RIP — Sagarika Ghose (@sagarikaghose) >March 8, 2015

V sad to hear of the death of Vinod Mehta. He was an original. — Sreenivasan Jain (@SreenivasanJain) >March 8, 2015

His last rites will be performed at 4 p.m. on Sunday at Lodhi Crematorium.