Babri demolition crusader and former MP Syed Shahabuddin dies

The diplomat-turned-politician was also known for his involvement in the Shah Bano case

Former three-time MP and diplomat Syed Shahabuddin died at a private hospital on Saturday morning. He was 82.

"He passed away at 5:22 AM at the hospital where he was admitted two weeks ago after he suffered from some pulmonary complications. He was not keeping well for the last few months," a family member said.

Shahabuddin, born in Ranchi in 1935, was buried in Delhi after last rites.

He had joined Indian Foreign Service in 1958 and served as a Vice Consul and Consul in New York from 1959-61.

Vice President Hamid Ansari condoled his demise, saying, he was a man of "deep convictions" and pursued issues that were dear to him with "great tenacity and determination."

"I am deeply saddened to learn of the demise of renowned political leader, scholar, diplomat and former Parliamentarian Syed Shahabuddin.

"Syed Shahabuddin was a friend and his passing away is a personal loss. A man of deep convictions, he pursued issues that were dear to him with great tenacity and determination. He will be remembered for his tireless work towards a more inclusive, less corrupt democracy in India," he said.

He was a Rajya Sabha member from Bihar during 1979-84 and a Lok Sabha member (Kishanganj) from 1985-89 and 1991-96.

"I convey my sincere condolences to the bereaved members of the family and join the nation in praying for eternal peace for the departed soul," Ansari said in his message.

Shahabuddin was enrolled as an advocate in the Patna High Court and the Supreme Court. He served as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs from 1975-78.

He also served as India's ambassador to Algeria and Mauritania.