Ex-Union Minister & Akali leader Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa passes away
It is with profound sadness that we report the passing away of Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, a former Union Minister and 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, after a prolonged illness related to his advancing age.
A stalwart in Indian politics, Dhindsa’s illustrious career spanned several decades, during which he held various prominent positions in the government and party hierarchy. His demise has sent shockwaves across the political spectrum, with tributes pouring in from leaders across the country.
Dhindsa was admitted to the private clinic in Mohali a few days ago, where he was undergoing treatment for age-related issues. His health had been deteriorating over the past few weeks, and despite the best medical care, his condition worsened, leading to his eventual passing.
A Life of Service and Dedication
Born on January 20, 1933, Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa was a renowned leader who dedicated his life to serving the people of Punjab and India. He began his political career in the early 1960s, rising through the ranks of the Shiromani Akali Dal, a party he remained loyal to until his death.
Dhindsa’s first significant role in politics came when he was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) from the Faridkot constituency in 1971. He went on to serve as a Member of Parliament for five consecutive terms, from 1971 to 1996. During this period, he held various ministerial portfolios, including that of the Union Minister of State for Railways, Civil Aviation, and Tourism.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the nation, Dhindsa was awarded the prestigious Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour, in 2019. However, he returned the award in December 2020, in solidarity with the farmers who were protesting against the Centre’s agricultural reforms.
A Strong Advocate for Punjab’s Interests
Dhindsa was a fierce advocate for the interests of Punjab and its people. He was a vocal critic of the Centre’s policies and initiatives that he believed were detrimental to the state’s well-being. His unwavering commitment to the cause of Punjab’s rights and interests earned him the respect and admiration of the people of the state.
Throughout his career, Dhindsa played a key role in shaping the political landscape of Punjab. He was a key figure in the Shiromani Akali Dal, serving as its general secretary and later as the party’s president. His leadership and guidance were instrumental in the party’s success in several elections.
A Loss to the Political Fraternity
The passing away of Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa is a significant loss to the political fraternity in India. His departure leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. He was a leader who commanded respect and admiration from people across the political spectrum.
The Indian Prime Minister, in a statement, condoled the passing away of Dhindsa, saying, “He was a dedicated public servant who served the nation with utmost dedication and honesty. His contributions to the development of Punjab and the country will always be remembered.”
The Akali Dal leadership, too, mourned the loss of their stalwart leader. The party’s president, Sukhbir Singh Badal, said, “Dhindsa was a towering figure in Punjab politics who dedicated his life to the service of the people. His passing away is a huge loss to the party and the state.”
Conclusion
Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa’s passing away is a sad occasion for the people of Punjab and India. His life was a testament to his unwavering commitment to serving the nation and the people. He will be remembered for his tireless efforts to promote the interests of Punjab and his unshakeable conviction in the values of democracy.
As we bid farewell to this great leader, we take comfort in the knowledge that his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the contributions he made to the nation. His passing away is a reminder of the impermanence of life, but it also serves as a tribute to his extraordinary life, which was marked by service, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the cause of the people.
