Sulabh International founder Bindeshwar Pathak dies

Bindeshwar Pathak, the founder of Sulabh International, a renowned social organization dedicated to promoting human rights, environmental sanitation, waste management, and education-driven reforms, passed away on Tuesday due to a sudden cardiac arrest. Pathak’s pioneering efforts in battling open defecation and his relentless dedication to uplift the underprivileged sections of society have left an indelible mark on India’s social landscape.

Pathak’s demise occurred shortly after he hoisted the national flag in commemoration of India’s Independence Day. Following the incident, he was promptly rushed to AIIMS Delhi, where medical authorities declared him brought dead at 1.42 pm.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, stating, “The passing away of Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak Ji is a profound loss for our nation. He was a visionary who worked extensively for societal progress and empowering the downtrodden.” Modi further acknowledged Pathak’s pivotal role in supporting the Swachh Bharat Mission, India’s nationwide sanitation campaign.

Here are five key aspects of Bindeshwar Pathak’s remarkable life and contributions:

1. Early Life and Background : Born in the Rampur Baghel village of Vaishali district, Bihar, Pathak hailed from a Brahmin family. His parents were Yogmaya Devi and Ramakant Pathak. After relocating to Patna, he pursued sociology at B.N. College, later serving as a teacher before joining the Gandhi Centenary Committee in Patna as a volunteer.
2. Inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi : Bindeshwar Pathak found inspiration in Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings. Over the span of five decades, he dedicated himself to the plight of manual scavengers, primarily marginalized women from the lowest stratum of India’s caste-based hierarchy.
3. Advocacy and Government Interaction : In 1973, Pathak’s advocacy led to an influential interaction with then-prime minister Indira Gandhi. An MLA wrote a letter on Pathak’s behalf, drawing the prime minister’s attention to the challenges faced by manual scavengers. In response, Gandhi expressed her intention to communicate with the chief minister regarding the issue.
4. Demonstration of Change : Pathak’s commitment bore fruit when, in 1973, he received funds from an Arrah municipality officer to construct two demonstration toilets. Impressed by the successful endeavor, authorities granted approval for a larger-scale project to address sanitation needs.
5. Legacy in Sanitation : Bindeshwar Pathak’s legacy is intertwined with his relentless pursuit of a cleaner India. His instrumental support for the Swachh Bharat Mission earned him recognition for his tireless dedication to improving sanitation conditions across the nation.

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