BSP founder Kanshi Ram dead, Maya vows to further his mission

New Delhi, Oct 9 (UNI) Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) founder leader Kanshi Ram, called the Messiah of Dalits, passed away early today here following a prolonged illness.

Mr Kanshi Ram's last rites will be performed according to Buddhist rituals as per his wishes at Nigam Bodh Ghat here at 1600 hrs.

The BSP leader, who died at the age of 72 following a cerebral stroke remained a bachelor throughout his life, which was devoted to organising dalits and other weaker sections and fighting for their rights, a task in which he was inspired by the life and ideology of Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar.

A large number of BSP workers, leaders and MPs besides his two sisters have reached 11, Humayun Road residence of party chief Mayawati where he had been living after a long hospitalisation.

Announcing his death Ms Mayawati, who had been declared by Mr Kanshi Ram as his political successor in 2001, expressed her resolve to carry forward the mission of her mentor and political guide.

She said Mr Ram's death was an irreparable loss to the party and to the cause of social justice.

''It has shocked BSP workers across the country,'' she said.

Mr Kanshi Ram's body will be kept at 12, Gurdwara Rakabganj party office before cremation to enable public to pay their last respect to the late leader.

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