New Delhi/Pune, Dec 8 (NationPress) Renowned social worker Baba Adhav has passed away in Pune late on Monday after a prolonged illness, according to family sources. He was aged 95.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the loss of the social activist.

On social media platform X, the Prime Minister stated: "Baba Adhav Ji will be commemorated for his dedication to serve society through multiple initiatives, particularly in empowering the underprivileged and enhancing labour rights. I am saddened by his departure. My thoughts are with his family and supporters. Om Shanti."

Baba Adhav, who dedicated over six decades to advocating for the rights of marginalized workers, is survived by his two sons, Asim and Amber.

As per aide Nitin Pawar, Adhav had been receiving treatment at a private hospital for nearly two weeks following a sudden decline in health. Despite being on advanced medical support, he passed away around 8:25 p.m. after experiencing a cardiac arrest.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also expressed his condolences. In a post on X in Marathi, he wrote: "The news about the loss of senior social worker Baba Adhav is profoundly sorrowful. He tirelessly advocated for the rights of the underprivileged and unorganised sectors, acting as a steadfast support for them."

CM Fadnavis recalled that "Baba Adhav established organizations to secure justice for porters, rickshaw drivers, and construction workers. He initiated various projects, including the Hamal Panchayat and the One Village-One Water Source movement. His fight against social injustices will always be cherished. Maharashtra has a rich heritage of social reformers, and today, we mourn the loss of one of its most eminent figures," he remarked.

The Maharashtra Chief Minister further stated that "Baba Adhav will always be remembered; his vision will continue to inspire generations to come."

"I offer my sincere tributes to him. We share in the sorrow of his family and admirers," he concluded.