The Congress party Monday paid tributes to George Joseph, Political Editor of IANS, who died following cardiac arrest, describing him as a journalist who excelled in his field.

Congress spokesperson Renuka Chowdhury said at the regular party briefing that George Joseph would serve as a role model for young mediapersons.

"He had really excelled in his field and that will be benchmark for many youngsters who are learning... In a way, Mr. George passed away with his boots on while he was on the job and reporting as usual," Chowdhury said.

The party observed a minute's silence at its media briefing as a mark of condolence.

Party's media secretary Tom Vaddakan placed a wreath on the body of George which was kept at the Kerala House for paying last respects.

CPI-M leader Prakash Karat, CPI leader D. Raja and BJP spokesperson Rajiv Pratap Rudy were among the leaders who paid their respects to George Jospeh at Kerala House.

George Joseph, 57, passed away at Fortis Hospital in Noida early Monday. He was rushed to the hospital after he suffered a massive heart attack. He had an emergency surgical procedure, after which he seemed to recover somewhat, but his condition worsened at night.

He is survived by his wife, also a journalist, and a daughter.