Pune, Aug 1 (UNI) Bharati Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) founder president Ramanbhai Shah passed away after a severe cardiac arrest here today.

He was 81. He is survived by his wife.

Mr Shah was born in 1926 into a business-cum-agriculturist family at Talegaon Dabhade near here.

He will always be remembered for his concerted efforts in improving the lot of workers and their well-being.

Having started his career by joining Swatik Oil Mills in Mumbai, he worked there for a decade which helped in gaining insight into the day to day problems of the workers.

Mr Shah, however, quit the job before plunging into the workers movement by joining the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh through the RSS cadre.

Mr Shah, a science graduate, was attracted to the RSS philosophy and remained a staunch supporter until his death.

He became the president of the (BMS) at Mumbai in 1963 and was elected its State president for six times before being elevated to be the all India President.

Mr Shah served the sangh in various capacities and was its ''Pracharak'' from 1951 to 52.

The sudden demise of Mr Shah has come as a shock to the workers fraternity and prominent leaders.

He will be cremated tomorrow, family sources said.

UNI