New Delhi: Former Rajya Sabha MP and longtime journalist and editor Chandan Mitra passed away on Wednesday night. He was 66.Though Mitra started out his political career in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), he switched over the the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in 2018.His son Kushan Mitra confirmed his death on Twitter, adding that his father had been suffering for some time.Mitra served as editor-in-chief and managing director of The Pioneer newspaper. He reportedly resigned from his roles there in June this year.Several politicians and journalists expressed their condolences and posted memories with Mitra.Shri Chandan Mitra Ji will be remembered for his intellect and insights. He distinguished himself in the world of media as well as politics. Anguished by his demise. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 2, 2021I am posting a photograph of Chandan Mitra and me together during a school trip in 1972. Be happy my dear friend wherever you are. Om Shanti pic.twitter.com/58vMvU6Wa9— Swapan Dasgupta (@swapan55) September 2, 2021Very sorry to hear abt d demise of former MP n senior journalist Sh Chandan Mitra. He was a good friend. Served on d India Foundation Board for many years until his health forced him to withdraw from public activism. Condolences to @kushanmitra n other near and dear. On Shantih pic.twitter.com/dHvHNjrgt8— Ram Madhav (@rammadhav_rss) September 2, 2021Shocked over the passing away of Chandan Mitra, noted editor and former Rajya Sabha MP. My deepest condolences to his family members in this hour of grief @DrChandanMitra— Rajat Sharma (@RajatSharmaLive) September 2, 2021“Sir, I have never been to journalism school.”“You know how to write. That should do.”Chandan Mitra, my first editor, mentor, the man who taught me more than any J school could have is no more. R.I.P. pic.twitter.com/oCN7DrFk4G— Deep Halder (@deepscribble) September 2, 2021Dr. Chandan Mitra had friends across the political spectrum and made very learned speeches in the Rajya Sabha. Apart from his professional qualifications, his knowledge of Hindi film music was awesome, which he used with great effect in his interventions and writings.— Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) September 2, 2021Sad to hear of the demise of former MP and veteran journalist Shri Chandan Mitra. He was a kind person and a hub of Knowldge.My condolences to his family, colleagues and loved ones.May his soul attain sadgati. Om Shanti🙏 pic.twitter.com/ZqPIcG445H— Naveen Jindal (@MPNaveenJindal) September 2, 2021