Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his deep grief over the passing of former MIC president and the first Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awardee from Malaysia, S Samy Vellu, early today.

Modi, in extending his condolences to the bereaved family, in his tweet said: "Saddened by the passing away of S Samy Vellu, former cabinet minister of Malaysia and the first Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awardee from Malaysia. Heartfelt condolences to his family. Om Shanti."

Samy Vellu died at about 7am today...