Noted lawyer Ram Jethmalani, one of India's finest criminal lawyers, on Sunday passed away at the age of 95 after suffering from prolonged illness. The former Union law minister died early on Sunday morning after his health deteriorated over the last two weeks.

The veteran lawyer had been suffering from months, according to his family members. According to sources, Jethmalani was bedridden for a week and had lost a lot of weight. Ram Jethmalani breathed his last at 7.45 am at his official residence in New Delhi.

Jethmalani is survived by his son, Mahesh Jethmalani and his daughter who lives in the US. His last rites will be performed in the evening at the Lodhi Road crematorium at 4 pm.

Commenting on Jethmalani's demise, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the country has lost an exceptional lawyer and iconic public figure.

"In the passing away of Shri Ram Jethmalani Ji, India has lost an exceptional lawyer and iconic public figure who made rich contributions both in the Court and Parliament. He was witty, courageous and never shied away from boldly expressing himself on any subject," Modi said on Twitter.

Condolence messages from other prominent leaders also started pouring in moments after Jethmalani's death.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, "Extremely saddened at the passing away of legendary lawyer Ram Jethmalani ji. An institution in himself, he shaped criminal law in post-independence India. His void would never be filled and his name will be written in golden words in legal history."

BJP leader Subramanian Swamy also bid his "friend" farewell and said, "My friend turned foe turned very good friend Ram Jethmalani passed away today at 95 years age. Farewell friend."

Congress leader and senior lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi said, "Ram Jethamalani with whom I shared get camaraderie wl b missed. Feisty, ebullient, fearless, outspoken 2a fault, uncaring of consequences or of societal norms, he had a large heart & a restive temperament. Always a crusader, his mind and body remained good almost to the end.

Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad also expressed condolences and praised the way Jethmalani handled his legal cases.

"Deeply condole the passing away of the veteran lawyer and former Law Minister Ram Jethmalani. His brilliance, eloquence, powerful advocacy and sound understanding of law will remain a worthy example in legal profession. My profound condolences," Prasad said.

Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah went to Jethmalani's house to pay last respects to the veteran lawyer.

"Deeply pained to know about the passing away of India’s veteran lawyer and former Union Minister Shri Ram Jethmalani ji. In him, we have not only lost a distinguished lawyer but also a great human who was full of life," Amit Shah said.