Ex-Union Minister & Akali leader Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa passes away
Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, the former Union Minister and senior leader of the Shiromani Akali Dal, has passed away at the age of 89 at a private clinic in Punjab’s Mohali on Wednesday. The news of his demise comes as a shock to the political fraternity in the state, where Dhindsa was a respected figure for his dedication and service to the people.
According to reports, Dhindsa was undergoing treatment for age-related issues at the time of his death. The former Union Minister was known for his strong will and determination, and his passing away has left a void in the political landscape of Punjab.
Born on July 2, 1933, Dhindsa had a long and illustrious career in politics, starting from his early days as a student leader. He was a member of the Shiromani Akali Dal, one of the oldest and most prominent political parties in Punjab, and rose through the ranks to become a senior leader of the party.
Dhindsa’s entry into politics was marked by his involvement in the Indian freedom struggle. He was a close associate of the legendary freedom fighter, Bhagat Singh, and was also a member of the Indian National Congress. His commitment to the cause of independence was unwavering, and he was arrested and imprisoned several times for his involvement in the freedom movement.
After India gained independence, Dhindsa continued to be active in politics, and became a prominent figure in the Shiromani Akali Dal. He was first elected to the Punjab Legislative Assembly in 1962, and went on to serve as a Member of Parliament in the Lok Sabha from 1977 to 1980.
Dhindsa’s political career was marked by several milestones, including his tenure as the Union Minister of Food and Civil Supplies from 1990 to 1991. During his term as Minister, he played a key role in implementing several reforms in the food and civil supplies sector, and his efforts helped to reduce food prices and improve the availability of essential commodities.
In recognition of his outstanding services to the nation, Dhindsa was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour, in 2019. However, in a sudden turn of events, he returned the award in December 2020, in protest against the Centre’s farm laws, which he believed would harm the interests of Punjab’s farmers.
Dhindsa’s decision to return the Padma Bhushan was seen as a significant development in the ongoing farmers’ protests in Punjab, and his move was widely hailed by the farming community. His return of the award was seen as a symbol of his commitment to the cause of the farmers, and his willingness to take a stand against the Centre’s policies.
Throughout his life, Dhindsa remained committed to the cause of Punjab and its people. He was a strong advocate for the rights of the farmers and the poor, and his efforts to improve the lives of the people of Punjab were widely recognized.
Dhindsa is survived by his wife, Joginder Kaur, and two sons, Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa Jr. and Harmeet Singh Dhindsa. His passing away is a significant loss to the political fraternity in Punjab, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
In conclusion, Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa’s passing away is a sad day for Punjab and its people. His contributions to the state’s politics and his commitment to the cause of the farmers and the poor will never be forgotten. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him.
