Bindeshwar Pathak, a visionary social activist and the founder of Sulabh International, passed away on Tuesday due to a cardiac arrest. The 80-year-old had experienced discomfort on the morning of Independence Day and was rushed to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) for medical assistance, according to Sulabh International’s statement.
Throughout his life, Bindeshwar Pathak was dedicated to championing various causes, including human rights, environmental cleanliness, alternative energy sources, and waste management through educational efforts, all under the banner of Sulabh International.
President Droupadi Murmu expressed her condolences to Bindeshwar Pathak’s family and the Sulabh International community through a Twitter post. She stated in Hindi, “The news of Mr. Bindeshwar Pathak’s passing, the visionary behind Sulabh International, is deeply saddening. Shri Pathak revolutionized the field of sanitation. He was honored with prestigious awards, including the Padma Bhushan. My thoughts are with his family and the Sulabh International community.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also mourned the loss of Bindeshwar Pathak, recognizing it as a “significant loss” for the nation. He praised Pathak for his unwavering efforts in “advancing society and empowering the marginalized.”
Honors and Contributions
Bindeshwar Pathak established the Sulabh International Social Service Organization in 1970 in Bihar, India. His work aimed to transform unsanitary toilet practices in urban slums, rural areas, and cities. His innovative toilet solutions significantly improved the lives and health of millions.
He also focused on eradicating the practice of manual human waste cleaning from bucket latrines. Through his efforts, over 1,749 towns transitioned to more hygienic sanitation solutions, and more than 160,835 toilets were constructed.
For his contributions, Bindeshwar Pathak received numerous prestigious awards, including the Padma Bhushan, the Global 500 Roll of Honour, the Stockholm Water Prize, the Energy Globe Award, the Dubai International Award for Best Practices, and the Legend of the Planet award from the French Senate in Paris.
In 2016, New York City declared April 14 as Bindeshwar Pathak Day to honor his global impact.
Legacy of Transformation
Bindeshwar Pathak’s legacy is one of transformative change, underscoring his commitment to creating a cleaner, healthier, and more dignified world for all. His pioneering work in sanitation and social innovation has left an indelible mark on India and the world. His efforts have not only improved public health but also elevated the quality of life for countless individuals across various communities.
