Renowned author and vice-president of Samata Parishad, Mr. Hari Narke, passed away in Mumbai today after suffering a heart attack. He was 70. Mr. Narke was the professor of Mahatma Phule chair at Savitribai Phule Pune University and a former member of the Maharashtra Backward Class Commission. He was also a member of the Rangnath Pathare committee which was formed to collect evidence to prove Marathi as a classical language.
 
In his condolence message, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said the State has lost an intellectual who was a pillar for the preservation and promotion of progressive ideology.
 
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the State has lost a great researcher and guide, who was critical to effectively propagating the thoughts and ideals of Mahatma Jyotiba Phule and Dr. B R Ambedkar.
 
Recalling Mr. Narke as someone who was at the forefront to fight for OBC rights, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar said Mr. Narke was not only a scholar but a foot soldier for all those who belonged to the weaker and marginalized sections of the society.