Veteran Akali Leader Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa Passes Away at 89
Senior Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader and former Union Minister Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa passed away on May 28, 2025, at the age of 89. He died at Fortis Hospital in Mohali after a prolonged illness, including severe pneumonia and cardiac complications.
🏛️ Early Life and Political Awakening
Born on April 9, 1936, in Ubhawal village, Sangrur district, Dhindsa began his political journey as a student leader at Government Ranbir College, Sangrur. He was elected as the youngest Sarpanch of Ubhawal and later became the Chairman of the Block Samiti, marking the start of his grassroots political career.
🗳️ Legislative and Ministerial Career
Dhindsa was first elected as an MLA in 1972 from Dhanaula constituency as an independent candidate and later joined SAD. He served as an MLA from Sunam in 1977, 1980, and 1985, holding key portfolios such as Transport, Sports, and Tourism in the Punjab Cabinet.
🏛️ National Political Influence
On the national stage, Dhindsa served as a Rajya Sabha MP from 1998 to 2004 and from 2010 to 2022. He was also elected to the Lok Sabha from Sangrur in 2004. From 2000 to 2004, he held the position of Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilizers in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government.
🏅 Padma Bhushan and Political Stand
In 2019, Dhindsa was awarded the Padma Bhushan for his contributions to public affairs. However, in 2020, he returned the award in solidarity with the farmers’ protests against the farm laws, demonstrating his commitment to the agrarian community.
🔄 Political Realignments
Dhindsa’s political journey saw several shifts. After being expelled from SAD in 2020, he formed SAD (Sanyukt) in 2021, which contested the 2022 Punjab Assembly elections in alliance with BJP and Punjab Lok Congress but did not secure any seats.
In March 2024, he rejoined SAD, but was expelled again in August for anti-party activities. Despite these setbacks, Dhindsa remained a prominent figure in Punjab politics.
🕯️ Final Tribute
Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa was cremated with full state honors at his native Ubhawal village in Sangrur on May 30, 2025. The funeral was attended by political leaders across party lines, reflecting the respect he commanded throughout his political career.
🧠 Why This News Is Important
🏛️ Political Legacy
Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa was a towering figure in Punjab politics, serving in various capacities, including as Union Minister and Member of Parliament. His long-standing association with SAD and his contributions to national politics make his passing a significant event in Indian political history.
🏅 National Recognition
His receipt of the Padma Bhushan in 2019 and subsequent return of the award in 2020 in solidarity with farmers highlight his commitment to public service and the agrarian community, making him a notable personality in national affairs.
🔄 Political Movements
Dhindsa’s formation of SAD (Sanyukt) and his rejoining and subsequent expulsion from SAD reflect the dynamic nature of political affiliations in Punjab, providing insights into the state’s political landscape.
📜 Historical Context
Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa’s political journey began in the 1970s, a period marked by significant political changes in Punjab. His association with SAD and his roles in various government positions reflect the party’s influence in the state’s politics. The formation of SAD (Sanyukt) in 2021 and its alliance with BJP and Punjab Lok Congress during the 2022 elections signify the evolving political alliances in Punjab, influenced by factors such as the farmers’ protests and leadership dynamics within SAD.The Times of India
✅ Key Takeaways from “Veteran Akali Leader Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa Passes Away at 89”
| No. | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1. | Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa passed away on May 28, 2025, at the age of 89 due to prolonged illness. |
| 2. | He served as Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilizers from 2000 to 2004. |
| 3. | Dhindsa was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2019 but returned it in 2020 in solidarity with farmers. |
| 4. | He formed SAD (Sanyukt) in 2021, which contested the 2022 Punjab Assembly elections. |
| 5. | Dhindsa was cremated with full state honors at his native Ubhawal village on May 30, 2025. |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions Related to Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa and Related Exam Information
Q1: Who was Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa?
A: Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa was a senior Shiromani Akali Dal leader, former Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilizers, and a prominent political figure from Punjab.
Q2: When did Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa pass away?
A: He passed away on May 28, 2025, at the age of 89.
Q3: For what contributions was Dhindsa awarded the Padma Bhushan?
A: He was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2019 for his public service and political contributions.
Q4: Why did Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa return his Padma Bhushan award?
A: He returned the award in 2020 in solidarity with the farmers protesting against the farm laws.
Q5: What political party did Dhindsa belong to, and what was SAD (Sanyukt)?
A: He was primarily associated with Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD). After his expulsion, he founded SAD (Sanyukt), a splinter group.
Q6: What roles did Dhindsa hold during his political career?
A: He served as MLA, MP (both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha), Union Minister, and was deeply involved in Punjab state politics.
Q7: What is the significance of Dhindsa’s political journey for Punjab politics?
A: Dhindsa’s career reflects the political dynamics of Punjab, including shifts in party alliances and farmers’ issues.
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