Veteran socialist leader G P Pradhan passes away

PUNE: Senior socialist leader and writer G P Pradhan died at a hospital here today following a prolonged illness.

He was 88. Pradhan, former leader of the Opposition in Maharashtra Legislative Council, had been in the forefront of the socialist movement in the state.

Known as a gentleman politician, Pradhan had participated in the 1942 Quit India movement and was jailed during the emergency in 1975.

He wrote a number of books, including one on Tolstoy, presenting the socialist thought in the Indian context.

Pradhan's body has been donated for medical research. Deputy Chief Minister Chhagan Bhujbal and Union Ministers Vilasrao Deshmukh and Sushil Kumar Shinde have condoled the demise of the senior leader and freedom fighter.

"People like Pradhan Sir had a great impact not only on the society but on generations. He led his entire life on 'simple living high thinking' principle. It is a big loss for all," Deshmukh said.

"We have lost a living legend. He instilled the power of simplicity in today's youth. His name will be remembered respectfully by coming generations," Power Minister Shinde said.

Bhujbal said Pradhan's simplicity and richness of thought was unique.

"One of the stalwarts who knew the political and social nerve of Maharashtra has gone behind the curtains of time," he said.