Ex-Union Minister & Akali leader Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa passes away
It is with a heavy heart that we report the passing away of Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, a stalwart figure in Indian politics and a senior leader of the Shiromani Akali Dal, at the age of 89. Dhindsa breathed his last at a private clinic in Mohali, Punjab, on Wednesday, surrounded by his family and loved ones.
According to reports, Dhindsa was undergoing treatment for age-related issues when he succumbed to his illness. His demise is a significant loss to the political landscape of India, and his passing away has sent shockwaves across the nation.
Dhindsa’s illustrious career spanned over several decades, during which he held various positions of responsibility. He was a Member of Parliament from 1977 to 1984 and again from 1989 to 1999. In 1999, he was appointed as the Union Minister of Food Processing Industries, a position he held until 2004.
Throughout his political career, Dhindsa was known for his strong organizational skills and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. He was a respected figure in the Shiromani Akali Dal and played a key role in the party’s growth and development.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the nation, Dhindsa was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour, in 2019. However, he later returned the award in December 2020, in solidarity with the farmers who were protesting against the Centre’s new agricultural laws.
Dhindsa’s decision to return the Padma Bhushan was seen as a bold move, and it earned him widespread respect and admiration from across the country. It was a testament to his commitment to the cause of the farmers and his unwavering dedication to the values of justice and equality.
Throughout his life, Dhindsa remained committed to the welfare of the people of Punjab and worked tirelessly to promote the interests of the state. He was a strong advocate for the rights of farmers, workers, and marginalized communities, and his passing away leaves a void in the political landscape of Punjab.
Dhindsa is survived by his family, including his wife, sons, and daughters. His family has been at the forefront of the farmers’ movement and has been actively involved in the protests against the Centre’s agricultural laws.
As news of Dhindsa’s passing away spread, tributes began pouring in from across the country. Politicians, leaders, and ordinary citizens alike paid their respects to the late leader, remembering his contributions to the nation and his unwavering commitment to the cause of the people.
The Shiromani Akali Dal, of which Dhindsa was a senior leader, also paid its respects to the late leader. The party’s president, Sukhbir Singh Badal, described Dhindsa as a “stalwart leader” who was “dedicated to the cause of the people of Punjab”.
Dhindsa’s passing away is a significant loss to the nation, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. As we bid farewell to this remarkable leader, we take comfort in the knowledge that his contributions to the country will never be forgotten.
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