Ex-Union Minister & Akali leader Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa passes away
Punjab has lost a stalwart with the passing away of former Union Minister and senior Shiromani Akali Dal leader Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa. The 89-year-old leader breathed his last at a private clinic in Mohali on Wednesday, leaving behind a legacy of selfless service to the people of Punjab and the nation.
Dhindsa was reportedly undergoing treatment for age-related issues before his unfortunate demise. His demise has sent shockwaves across the state, with tributes pouring in from across the political spectrum.
Dhindsa’s illustrious career spanned over five decades, during which he held various positions of responsibility in the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and the Union government. He was first elected to the Punjab Assembly in 1969 and went on to serve as a Member of Parliament (MP) from the Bathinda constituency in 1984.
Dhindsa’s rise to prominence in the SAD was meteoric, and he soon became a trusted lieutenant of the party’s founder, Master Tara Singh. He played a key role in the party’s election campaigns and was known for his oratory skills and ability to connect with the masses.
In 1990, Dhindsa was appointed as the Minister of State for Agriculture in the Union government, a position he held until 1992. He later served as the Minister of State for Food and Civil Supplies from 1996 to 1997.
Dhindsa was also a strong advocate for the rights of farmers and was actively involved in the farmers’ movement. In 2020, he returned the Padma Bhushan award, India’s third-highest civilian honor, in protest against the Centre’s farm laws. This decision was seen as a significant step, as it was the first time that an award winner had returned the honor in protest.
Throughout his career, Dhindsa was known for his simplicity, humility, and dedication to public service. He was a beloved figure in Punjab, and his passing away has left a void that will be difficult to fill.
The government of India has condoled Dhindsa’s demise, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi describing him as a “dedicated public servant” who had served the nation with distinction. Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh also paid tribute to Dhindsa, saying that he had been a “stalwart of the SAD and a champion of farmers’ rights”.
Dhindsa is survived by his wife, two sons, and a daughter. His family has been devastated by his sudden demise, and they are currently receiving condolences from across the state.
As news of Dhindsa’s passing away spread, tributes poured in from politicians, civil society members, and ordinary citizens. Punjab’s Deputy Chief Minister Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa described Dhindsa as a “mass leader” who had served the state with distinction. Former Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal also paid tribute to Dhindsa, saying that he had been a “towering figure” in Punjab politics.
Dhindsa’s legacy will be remembered for generations to come. He was a true leader who dedicated his life to serving the people of Punjab and the nation. His passing away is a loss that will be deeply felt by all who knew him and worked with him.
