By Dr N. Francis Xavier
Prof. Ram Kapse, popularly known as Rambhau passed away at his native Kalyan this morning after a prolonged illness. He was the Lt. Governor of Andaman & Nicobar Islands during 2004- 2006, a turbulent time due to the devastating tsunami that hit the islands on 26 December 2004.
A man of great personal integrity, scholarship and administrative ability he shouldered the great responsibility of rescue, relief and rehabilitation during that critical period. His experience of tackling the Latur earthquake in Maharashtra helped him a lot in taking the right decisions. But the stress was too great and he had to resign due to ill health.
I was his OSD from the day he was sworn in and was continuously by his side throughout his tenure. He treated me as his own son and used to share many personal experiences during our long journeys. Having lost his parents at an early age he was brought up by his elder sister. He worked as a lecturer in Sanskrit and Marathi in DG Ruparel College, Mumbai before joining politics.
He was a man of great compassion and worked for the welfare of the poor and downtrodden. He initiated the first de-addiction programme in Port Blair for alcoholics. It was during his time the Swatantra Jyot came up in the Cellular Jail and a new gallery on the First War of Indian Independence.
His family members were also dedicated social workers. They came and worked in the tsunami relief camps. Mrs Smita Kapse and her relatives donated an ambulance to the health department.
Prof Kapse will be remembered for his down-to-earth nature and administrative acumen.
I will forever remember and cherish my long association with him. May the Almighty grant him eternal peace.
