Mangalore : Renowned senior criminal lawyer Purushottam Poojary (91), passes away in his residence, due to cardiac arrest on May 6, Tuesday.

Poojary was a diabetic, who had suddenly collapsed, when he went for a bath after breakfast on Tuesday.

As lawyer he had been practicing law for 62 years and was an activist who fought for justice especially for the cause of the legal fraternity. He had also fought for the justice in the murder of advocate Naushad Kashimji, who was his student.

Mangalore Bar Association expressed condolence at his demise.

He is survived by his wife Sita Devi (87) and son Sujay Raj. His brother resides in Hyderabad.

In connection to the hearing in Manipal gang-rape case, he appeared as lawyer for last time in Udupi court on May 5, Monday.