Founder of 'Sulabh International' Bindeshwar Pathak passed away today at AIIMS, Delhi due to cardiac arrest. He was 80. He established the Sulabh International Social Service in 1970, and campaigned extensively against manual scavenging. He was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1991.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the passing away of Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak is a profound loss for the nation. In a post on social media, Mr. Modi called him a visionary who worked extensively for societal progress and empowering the downtrodden. He said that the social activist made it his mission to build a cleaner India and provided monumental support to the Swachh Bharat Mission. The Prime Minister said his work will continue to inspire several people. He extended his condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.