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 former Union Minister and a prominent leader of the Shiromani Akali Dal. Dhindsa breathed his last at the age of 89 at a private clinic in Punjab’s Mohali on Wednesday, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated public service and unwavering commitment to his party.
According to reports, Dhindsa was undergoing treatment for age-related issues at the time of his demise. His passing away has sent shockwaves throughout the country, with tributes pouring in from across the political spectrum.
Dhindsa’s illustrious career spans several decades, during which he held various positions of responsibility. He was a Member of Parliament (MP) from 1980 to 1999, and later became a Union Minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led government. He also served as the Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha.
Despite his passing, Dhindsa’s contributions to the country will not be forgotten. In 2019, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour, in recognition of his outstanding services to the nation. However, he returned the award in December 2020 in solidarity with the farmers who were protesting against the Centre’s agricultural policies.
Dhindsa’s decision to return the Padma Bhushan was a testament to his commitment to the cause of the farmers and his unwavering support for their struggles. This act of defiance was widely appreciated by the farming community and the people of Punjab, who saw it as a symbol of Dhindsa’s courage and conviction.
Throughout his life, Dhindsa remained a loyal and dedicated leader of the Shiromani Akali Dal. He was a key figure in the party’s decision-making process and played a crucial role in shaping its policies. His passing away is a significant loss for the party and the people of Punjab, who will deeply miss his guidance and wisdom.
Dhindsa’s family, friends, and colleagues have been left to mourn his passing. His wife, Sardarni Harinder Kaur Dhindsa, and his children, including his son, Ranjit Singh Dhillon, are said to be in a state of shock and grief.
As news of Dhindsa’s passing spread, tributes began pouring in from across the country. Political leaders, including Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal, and Punjab Congress President Amrinder Singh Raja Warring, condoled his death and remembered his contributions to the state and the country.
Dhindsa’s legacy will be remembered for a long time to come. His unwavering commitment to public service, his courage in the face of adversity, and his dedication to his party and the people of Punjab will be an inspiration to future generations.
In conclusion, the passing away of Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa is a significant loss for the country and the people of Punjab. His life was a testament to the power of dedicated public service and the importance of staying true to one’s principles and values. As we bid farewell to this remarkable leader, we remember his contributions and honor his memory by continuing to strive for a better future for our country.
Reference:
https://x.com/pti_news/status/1927709122364903740
