COMRADE Raghbir Singh Hooda, former state secretary of CPI(M) Haryana state committee and a veteran advocate, passed away in Rohtak on February 21.

Haryana state secretariat of the Party expressed deep grief at the passing away of the octogenarian Left leader who led an arduous life in the struggle for the toiling masses. Com Hooda had to face police repression several times including detentions under MISA during emergency.

CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury while condoling his passing away said Com Hooda was fully committed to the democratic and progressive values. He had discharged responsibilities of holding state level office bearer posts in the peasants, workers, lawyers unions and other social organisations.

His cremation was attended by several distinguished personalities including CPI(M) state secretary Surender Singh, senior leaders Inderjit Singh, SN Solanki, BS Dahiya, Kisan Sabha state president Master Sher Singh, CITU general secretary Jai Bhagwan, All India Lawyers Union state leaders Gurmej Singh and Som Dutt, Janvadi Mahila Samiti state secretary Savita, Anand Singh Dangi MLA, former MP Inder Singh, former MLA BB Batra, former MLA Umed Singh and others.