INDIAN communist, politician, writer and businessman Harpal Brar has died, aged 85.

The founder and chairman of the Communist Party of Great Britain (Marxist–Leninist) died on Saturday in Mohali, Punjab, India.

Paying tribute, the Indian Workers' Association (IWA) said: “It is with deep regret that [we] share the news of Comrade Harpal Singh Brar’s sad demise.

“Comrade Harpal had struggled for a number of years from a spinal operation. 

“He had written many books, from Perestroika onwards, and edited Lalkar,” the Marxist-Leninist journal.

“He was a brave, courageous and charismatic leader with a super intellect; a powerful orator who held his audience spell bound; full of love and humour.

“Our thoughts are with his family, Macel, Ella, Ranjit, Jyoti, Carlos, and his grandchildren. 

“The IWA extends its sympathies and condolences to all Harpal’s comrades, friends and members of his extended family.

“We shall remember him for his lifelong contribution and commitment to the emancipation of humanity.

“We dip our scarlet banner in the memory of Comrade Harpal Singh Brar. Red salute.”