New Delhi, Aug 1 - President Pratibha Patil Saturday condoled the death of veteran Congress leader Devendra Nath Dwivedi, who was appointed governor of Gujarat a fortnight ago but was yet to take charge, saying that the nation has lost a 'distinguished public figure.'

In her message to Dwivedi's wife Vidya, the president said: 'I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing away of Devendra Nath Dwivedi.'

'He was a veteran lawyer and parliamentarian. In his death, the nation has lost a distinguished public figure.'

The veteran Congress leader died here Saturday of liver complications. He was 74.

Dwivedi, a former Supreme Court lawyer, was appointed governor of Gujarat July 18.