President Pranab Mukherjee has condoled the passing away of former Chief Minister of Punjab, Surjit Singh Barnala. <br/><br/>In a message to Mr Barnala's wife, the President said, he is saddened to learn about the passing away of his colleague and friend for long years. <br/><br/>Mr Mukherjee said, Mr Barnala was a distinguished statesman, Parliamentarian and able administrator who served the nation with distinction. <br/><br/>He said, the departed leader will always be remembered for the strong stance he took against the forces of extremism and the struggle he waged against terrorists and anti-national forces.