Pune: Former Pune Mayor Datta Ekbote (84) passed away on Wednesday. The former Mayor was tested positive for the novel coronavirus and was admitted to the Sassoon General Hospital. He is survived by wife, two daughters and a grandson.

Ekbote, known as the revolutionary leader of the poor and was a socialist thinker. He served as State Vice President in Samajwadi Party, Janata Party and later in NCP.

Recently, their eldest daughter and youngest son succumbed to COVID-19. As soon as Ekbote tested positive, he made tried to contact many hospitals but didn’t get any response. Finally, he was being admitted to Sassoon Hospital.

Former Corporator Meenakshi Dnyaneshwar Kadgi contacted MLA Girish Bapat and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar seeking assistance after which facilities were made available.

Even after his demise, there were difficulties in his funeral. After his demise, his body was first taken to Kailash Cemetery but due to lack of space, it was shifted to Yerawada. Again it was shifted at Koregaon Park and cremated.