The Polit Bureau of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) has issued the following statement on March 3.

THE Polit Bureau of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) expresses its profound sorrow at the death of Comrade Ashok Ghosh, veteran leader of the All India Forward Bloc.

Comrade Ashok Ghosh, inspired by Subhas Chandra Bose, joined the freedom movement at a young age. He had participated in the Quit India movement. He headed the West Bengal unit of the Forward Bloc since 1952. During the course of these nearly seven decades, he led several mass movements on issues concerning the common people.

Comrade Ghosh was the senior most leader of the Left Front in West Bengal. He was one of the founders of the West Bengal Left Front. He made an immense contribution to strengthen the Left Front during the past several decades.

His simple living, amiable nature and firm commitment made him one of the widely respected leaders in West Bengal, cutting across party lines.

The Polit Bureau of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) pays its homage to Comrade Ashok Ghosh and conveys its heartfelt condolences to the leaders and cadres of the All India Forward Bloc.

CONDOLENCE MESSAGE

FROM SITARAM YECHURY

Below is the text of the condolence message sent by Sitaram Yechury, CPI(M) general secretary on March 3.

I AM deeply saddened and shocked at hearing the news of the death of Comrade Ashok Ghosh, veteran leader of the All India Forward Bloc.

Comrade Ghosh was the senior most leader of the Left Front in West Bengal and was a widely respected leader. His contribution to founding the Left Front in West Bengal and over the years to strengthening it will always be remembered.

He was a leader of several mass movements championing people’s aspirations and for social justice.

I convey my heartfelt condolences to his family and members of the All India Forward Bloc.