New Delhi: Renowned women’s rights activist, Gandhian and founder of the Self Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) Ela Bhatt passed away in Ahmedabad on Wednesday. She was 89.“It is with profound grief that we announce the passing away of our beloved and respected founder, Smt. Elaben Bhatt, a pioneer in advocating for women workers’ rights, we strive to carry her legacy forward,” SEWA tweeted.It is with profound grief that we announce the passing away of our beloved and respected founder, Smt. #ElabenBhattA pioneer in advocating for women workers’ rights, we strive to carry her legacy forward.#ElaBhatt #RIP pic.twitter.com/HaLHowwniF— SEWA Bharat (@SEWABharat) November 2, 2022Bhatt is a recipient of the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award.She was the chairperson of the Sabarmati Ashram Trust and until recently, the chancellor of the Gujarat Vidyapith, a university that was established by Mahatma Gandhi.Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled her death. “Sad to know about the death of Elaben Bhatt. She will be remembered long for her work for the promotion of women empowerment, social service and education among the youth. Condolences to her family members and admirers,” Modi tweeted in Gujarati.According to NDTV, former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said Bhatt was one of her personal heroes. “Her work embodies the principle that every person should have the chance to achieve his or her dreams and make the most of their God-given potential,” Clinton said.According to Sabrang, Bhatt was the recipient of many prestigious awards and honours such as the Ramon Magsaysay Award (1977), the Right Livelihood Award (1984), the Padma Shri (1985), Padma Bhushan (1986), Doctorate Degree in Humane Letters from Harvard University (2001) and the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development in 2013.(With PTI inputs)
