Com. Kankar alias our beloved Chaka of Durgapur passed away on 19th February, 2014 night in a Hospital. He had been suffering from a serious bronchial infection. He was nearly 72.
Coming from a lower middle class background he became a steel worker in Durgapur Alloy Steel Plant (of SAIL) during late 60s. He soon became a vanguard and fighting worker in the industry, and was drawn to the ongoing revolutionary struggle led by CPI(ML). He became a regular CPI(ML) activist since the early 70s. His crucial role and contribution in cooperation with a batch of worker party activists and supporters in Durgapur will always be remembered. This was especially significant during the 1972-78 period, which was one of tremendous crackdown and setback. Durgapur was one of the important theatres of struggle where the party was rebuilt from scratch, and the significance of an industrial worker becoming a party vanguard at a time of white terror cannot be overstated.
He was arrested in late 70s and after his release, he opted for being involved in mass open work as a worker. In addition to working class or TU work he was also attached with different socio cultural activities like the Kotnis Committee and the Indo-China Friendship Society.
We can never forget his fine qualities like simplicity, deep rooted faith in the party, caring human relations with all comrades, and dedication. Naturally, a large section of people from different walks of life spontaneously assembled at his funeral.
Long live Com. Kankar!
