Ex-Union Minister & Akali leader Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa passes away
It is with a sense of profound loss and sorrow that we bid adieu to Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, a stalwart figure in Indian politics and a senior leader of the Shiromani Akali Dal. The former Union Minister and Padma Bhushan awardee passed away at the age of 89 at a private clinic in Punjab’s Mohali on Wednesday. Dhindsa was undergoing treatment for age-related issues at the time of his demise.
Born on August 7, 1935, Dhindsa had a long and illustrious career in politics, spanning over five decades. He was a member of the Shiromani Akali Dal and held various positions within the party, including that of the party’s president. His dedication to the party and his unwavering commitment to the people of Punjab earned him immense respect and admiration.
Dhindsa’s entry into politics was in the early 1960s, when he became a member of the Shiromani Akali Dal. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a prominent leader within the party. In 1977, he was elected to the Punjab Legislative Assembly for the first time, a position he would go on to hold for several terms.
In 1985, Dhindsa was appointed as the Finance Minister of Punjab, a position he held until 1997. During his tenure, he implemented several progressive policies, including the waiver of agricultural loans and the establishment of the Punjab State Electricity Board. His financial acumen and management skills earned him widespread recognition, and he was hailed as one of the most effective Finance Ministers in Punjab’s history.
Dhindsa’s achievements in politics did not go unnoticed, and in 2019, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour. However, in a surprise move, he returned the award in December 2020, in solidarity with the farmers who were protesting against the Centre’s agricultural reforms.
The farmers’ protests, which began in September 2020, were a major challenge for the Centre, and Dhindsa’s decision to return the Padma Bhushan was seen as a significant gesture of support for the protesters. His actions were widely appreciated, and he was hailed as a champion of the farmers’ cause.
Throughout his life, Dhindsa was known for his unwavering commitment to the people of Punjab and his unshakeable faith in the Shiromani Akali Dal. He was a true leader, who always put the interests of his party and his people before his own. His passing away is a loss not just for the Shiromani Akali Dal, but for the entire state of Punjab.
Dhindsa is survived by his wife, Manjit Kaur, and two sons, Parminder Singh and Davinder Singh. His sons are also involved in politics and have followed in their father’s footsteps.
As news of his passing away spread, tributes began pouring in from across the political spectrum. Former Chief Minister of Punjab, Amarinder Singh, paid his respects to Dhindsa, saying that he was a “dedicated leader who always put the interests of Punjab first”. Union Minister, Harsimrat Kaur Badal, also condoled his death, saying that Dhindsa was a “true patriot” who always worked for the betterment of the state.
Dhindsa’s passing away is a reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of making the most of the time we have. As we bid adieu to this great leader, we can only hope that his legacy will inspire future generations of politicians to follow in his footsteps and work selflessly for the betterment of their communities.
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