Sanat Mehta: Socialist to the Core, an Activist by Heart
(April 19, 1925 – August 20, 2015)
Sanat Mehta (1925 – 2015) was a veteran Indian politician, a committed socialist, and a prominent activist from Gujarat. His life was deeply rooted in the socialist movement, and he played a vital role in India's political and social activism during the post-independence era. He was known for his integrity, Gandhian principles, and dedication to the welfare of the working class and marginalized communities.
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Sanat Mehta’s Legacy (1925–2015)
Sanat Mehta was a visionary freedom fighter, student leader, administrator, and tireless champion for the marginalized. As one of Gujarat’s founding figures, he played a vital role in shaping the state's early identity and led transformative efforts in education, labor rights, healthcare, and grassroots empowerment.
He dedicated his life to the cause of social justice — advocating for farmers, fishermen, salt workers, women, tribals, and caste and faith minorities. Through every phase of his multifaceted career, Sanat Mehta remained a relentless servant of the people.
Over First Decades of Commitment to Exceptional Healthcare (2015-2025)
To serve the underprivileged with dignity by providing quality healthcare, education, and social support — free from discrimination, accessible to all, and rooted in compassion, justice, and equality.
Sanat Mehta: Voice of the Voiceless, Conscience of a Cause
Sanat Mehta, 90, was a prominent socialist leader in Gujarat and the last living leader of the Maha Gujarat movement, which led to the state's formation. He had a long public career spanning over 70 years, starting with his participation in India's freedom struggle in 1942 and leading the Arzi Hukumat Movement in 1947 to free Junagadh.
A staunch advocate for farmers, Dalits, and tribals, Mehta was known for his resistance against various government and private projects impacting these communities, particularly concerning land acquisition. He held significant positions, including Member of Parliament, state finance minister, and the first chairman of Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited (SSNNL), where he innovatively introduced Narmada Bonds to fund the Narmada Project. Mehta also chaired the Gujarat State Planning Commission and, in his later years, served as the president of the Gujarat Khedut Samaj, continuing his fight against government policies affecting farmers.
Sanat Mehta's Enduring Mark on Indian Politics: A Commitment to Principled Leadership
In the dynamic and often complex sphere of Indian politics, Sanat Mehta distinguished himself as a figure of unwavering principle and profound dedication. His political career was characterized by a steadfast commitment to ethical governance and the service of the populace, particularly the marginalized and underrepresented. Unlike many who pursued power as an end, Mehta viewed politics as a vehicle for societal betterment and justice.
Sanat Mehta: The Last Lion of People’s Politics in Gujarat
Sanat Mehta, who passed away at the age of 90, was the last surviving leader of the historic Maha Gujarat Andolan—the movement that ultimately led to the formation of Gujarat state. A towering political figure and lifelong socialist, Mehta dedicated more than seven decades of public life to the cause of justice, equality, and people’s rights in Gujarat.
April 19, 1925 - August 20, 2015
A doyen on Gujarat’s socio-political scenario, Sanat Mehta was a multifaceted personality. Born in Bhavnagar district, he participated in India’s freedom struggle as a student leader and later was one of the young leaders of Maha Gujarat Andolan that culminated in Gujarat’s statehood. With his sharp acumen, he was amongst the few freedom fighters who not only transitioned as a successful politician but also as an able administrator who shaped and implemented policies to answer young India’s development challenges.
Making Vadodara his home, his multi-faceted personality was at work in each of Gujarat’s pivotal political-social movements, at ease both in and out of power, being an able policy maker as well as an effective opposition leader. Be it as a minister, or a union leader or as an opposition leader, he was particular in championing social causes, and undertaking path breaking initiatives for the welfare of the under privileged, be it tribals, women, the farmers, the fishermen, the salt workers, the sanitary workers and various minority groups till his last breath.
A Voice for
Freedom
Shaping Gujarat’s Future
Champion of the Marginalized
A Legacy of Quiet Strength
Gujarat
Founding Father of Modern Gujarat
As a champion of Gujarat’s statehood, Shri Mehta played a pivotal role in shaping the newly formed state’s policy framework. His commitment to equity and grassroots empowerment helped address the developmental challenges faced by a young Gujarat.
He was actively involved in landmark movements that redefined social, economic, and political priorities across the state. His efforts helped democratize access to education, healthcare, land rights, and social dignity for the underprivileged.
Remembering the Man Behind the Mission
Sanat Mehta was not just a politician or activist — he was a compassionate human being who lived humbly and acted with fierce integrity. His tireless work, fearless voice, and deep-rooted sense of justice continue to inspire new generations.
His life is a powerful reminder that true leadership lies in service, and true progress is only meaningful when it includes everyone.
