AJK's former president and premier Sardar Sikandar Hayat passes away

Khan was reportedly hospitalised and under treatment for a heart ailment at a Kotli hospital.

He held the distinction of being appointed AJK's president and also serving as the prime minister twice.

Earlier this year, Khan, after more than a decade, had ended his association with the PML-N and rejoined the Muslim Conference (MC), according to Daily Dawn.

He was among the pioneers of the PML-N in Kashmir, the publication reported.

Responding to his death, Prime Minister Imran wrote on Twitter: "Saddened to learn of the passing of Sardar Sikandar Hayat Khan, former President of AJK as well as former PM of AJK."

Saddened to learn of the passing of Sardar Sikandar Hayat Khan, former President of AJK as well as former PM of AJK. His contribution to the Kashmir cause & service to the Kashmiri people were invaluable. My prayers & condolences go to his family.

— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) October 9, 2021

"His contribution to the Kashmir cause [and] service to the Kashmiri people were invaluable. My prayers [and] condolences go to his family," he added.