All-India Forward Bloc leader Ashok Ghosh, has passed away at the age of 93. He is one of the most respected leaders in West Bengal and instrumental in formation of the CPI (M)-led Left Front government. In a political career that spanned over seven decades, nearly 65 years were spent as Secretary of the State wing of the All India Forward Bloc, the party founded by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. He became the Secretary in 1951, and remained so till his death.

Born on July 2, 1923 at Chinsurah Hooghly, Ghosh, inspired by Netaji, was drawn to the freedom struggle at a very early age. He joined the Forward Bloc in 1941. Over the years, Ghosh gained prominence as a leader, who was in the forefront of several mass movements; and also hailed as a keen political tactician.

Known for his Spartan lifestyle and affable personality, Ghosh’s popularity cut across party lines. He was well respected even by his staunchest opponents. On February 2, Ghosh was rushed to a hospital after suffering from lower respiratory tract infection. He had since then been on ventilator support.

Chief minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her grief over Ghosh’s death. “Saddened on the passing away of veteran politician Ashok Ghosh. He used to adore me a lot,” she said.