Former Member of the Maharashtra Legislative Council (MLC), noted political science scholar, journalist, and veteran educationist Prof B T Deshmukh passed away on Friday evening. He was 88. According to family members, Prof Deshmukh had been unwell for the last few days and was receiving treatment at his residence. He suffered a heart attack on Friday evening and breathed his last around 8 pm. Prof Bhaurao Tulshiramji Deshmukh, affectionately known as “BT Bhau”, was one of the most respected public figures in Vidarbha. He represented the Amravati Graduates’ Constituency in the Maharashtra Legislative Council for five consecutive terms from 1980 to 2009. During his long political career, he earned a reputation as a knowledgeable and dedicated legislator.

 

He was widely known for his efforts towards balanced regional development and was often called the “Maharshi of Irrigation Backlog Eradication” for raising issues related to irrigation and development in Vidarbha. His death marks the end of an era in Maharashtra’s public and educational life. Prof Deshmukh completed his BA from Vidarbha Mahavidyalaya, Amravati, under Nagpur University in 1962 and obtained his MA in Political Science in 1964. He was a renowned educationist and also served as president of the Nagpur University Teachers’ Union (NUTA). Throughout his life, he worked for the welfare and rights of college and university teachers.

 

Soon after news of his demise spread, political leaders, academicians, social activists and various party workers reached his residence to pay their respects. Many remembered him as an intellectual leader who devoted his life to education, public service and the welfare of society. He is survived by his family and countless admirers across Maharashtra. His funeral procession will begin at 5 pm on Saturday from his residence at Vidyut Colony on VMV Road, Amravati. The last rites will be performed at the Hindu Crematorium. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari expressed grief over the death of Prof Deshmukh. He said they shared a close bond and worked together in the legislature for many years. Gadkari praised Deshmukh’s efforts for teachers’ rights and Vidarbha’s development, calling his death a great loss for Amravati and Maharashtra.