Indian journalist Dilip Padgaonkar passes away

Veteran Indian journalist Dilip Padgaonkar, who was widely respected for his secular and liberal approach on key issues facing India and the world, died at a hospital in Pune today.

The 72-year-old died of heart attack and multi-organ failure, said Dr Sanjay Pathare, director of medical services at Ruby Hall Clinic, where Padgaonkar was admitted four days ago.

Born in Pune in 1944, Padgaonkar started his career as a journalist in 1968 as The Times of India newspaper correspondent in Paris. He became the daily's Editor in 1988 and held the post for six years.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the death of Padgaonkar, saying he was a leading public thinker whose contribution to journalism will always be remembered in a Tweet.