Baba Amte passes away

Social reformer Murlidhar Devidas Amte alias Baba AmteChandrapur (Maharashtra), Feb 9: Noted social reformer Murlidhar Devidas Amte alias Baba Amte passed away at his 'Anandwan' ashram here on Saturday. He was 94.

He is survived by two sons.

Ramon Magsaysay Award winner, Baba Amte has devoted his life to the care and rehabilitation of leprosy patients.

His community development project at ‘Anandwan’ (Forest of Bliss) is recognised around the world and has done much to dispel prejudice against leprosy victims.

He also launched the ‘Bharat Jodo’ movements from Kanyakumari to Kashmir in 1985 and Gujarat to Arunachal Pradesh in 1988, with the mission of establishing peace and raising environmental consciousness.

Trained in law, he started a practice at Warora, but moved by the poverty he saw around him and then decided to dedicate himself to social justice.

Baba Amte was born in Hinganghat in Wardha District on December 26, 1914. (ANI)