Shiv Sena leader Datta Nalawade (77) died here on Friday after a prolonged illness.
The former Maharashtra Assembly Speaker (1995-99) breathed his last at the Jaslok Hospital at 1.30 a.m. He reportedly suffered from respiratory problems.
He is survived by three daughters.
Mr. Nalawade, a four-time MLA, was the Mayor in 1986.
“Sena supremo Bal Thackeray had once referred to Mr. Nalawade as a bulwark of the party,” said senior Sena leader Neelam Gorhe.
Leaders across the political spectrum, including Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar paid tributes to Mr. Nalawade.
