SRINAGAR: Sampat Prakash, Kashmir’s most prominent and respected trade unionist, passed away on Saturday afternoon in Srinagar due to cardiac arrest.
Sampat has been intrumental in shaping the trade union activism in Kashmir and went to jail for that. He has been very vocal even after retiring from the service. In recent days, the 85-year-old activist gained attention for his vocal interviews that ignited controversy in the region. He was a strong opponant of the reading down of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status.
His demise has left a void in the activist community, and his contributions will be remembered by many.
CPI(M) leader Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami expressed his profound sorrow on Twitter, stating, “Deeply pained by the passing away of veteran trade union leader Sampath Prakash. He made an immense contribution to the trade union movement. He was in the front row of leaders who organised the 1967 general strike of employees along with Abdul Majeed Khan, Shishopal, and others.”
The Jammu Kashmir Civil Society Forum (JKCSF) also mourns the loss of Sampat Prakash.
In a heartfelt condolence message, Wani expressed deep grief and shock at the sudden passing of Shri Sampat Prakash, who suffered a massive heart attack at SKIMS Soura earlier today. Wani lauded Prakash as a brave and inspiring figure within the Jammu Kashmir community, emphasizing his significant contributions to the trade union movement.
Wani described Sampat Prakash as a trusted friend and guide throughout their shared struggles. Wani extended his prayers for eternal peace for the departed soul and offered support and strength to the grieving family during this challenging period. The entire JKCSF leadership expressed sympathy and solidarity with the bereaved family in their time of sorrow.
