Maharashtra Governor K Sankaranarayanan has expressed deep sense of grief over the demise of senior Parliamentarian and Gandhian leader Mohan Dharia.
In a condolence message to Ravindra Dharia, son of Mohan Dharia, the Governor said: "Mohan Dharia was a saintly figure in the public life of Maharashtra. After serving the nation with distinction as Parliamentarian, as Union Minister of Commerce and as Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, Dharia dedicated his life to the noble cause of environment protection, afforestation and rural development through his organisation Vanarai."
He involved children and youth in the movement. Even at an advanced age, Dharia was full of energy and enthusiasm and was ever so willing to serve the society. In his demise, Maharashtra has lost a true Gandhian leader, a noble soul. Continuing his good work will be a fitting tribute to him, he said.
"I had the good fortune of meeting Dhariaji on many occasions. He was like an elder brother to me, and therefore the loss is equally personal. I offer my heartfelt condolences on his demise and convey the same to his family and friends," the Governor said.
Expressing grief over the demise of the leader, state Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan described Dharia as an extraordinary personality who was a unique amalgam of politics and social life.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar said the afforestation work done by Dharia would be remembered for a long time.
