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The Hindu
5 days ago
- Politics
- The Hindu
Veteran Akali leader Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa dies at 89; political leaders express grief
Veteran Akali leader and former Union Minister Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa died Wednesday (May 28, 2025) evening following age-related health issues at a private hospital in Mohali. He was 89. He is survived by his wife, a son and two daughters. According to a statement by the hospital, Dhindsa was admitted on Tuesday in a critical condition. He was suffering from severe pneumonia and cardiac complications, compounded by age-related health issues. "Despite the best efforts of the multidisciplinary medical team, he passed away at approximately 5:05 p.m. today due to cardiac arrhythmia and cardiac arrest," it said. Dhindsa's son Parminder Singh Dhindsa was the Finance Minister in the erstwhile Akali government. Sukhdev Dhindsa became Shiromani Akali Dal Lok Sabha MP from Sangrur in 2004. He was the Union minister of sports, chemicals and fertilizers in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government. Dhindsa was a Rajya Sabha MP from 1998 to 2004 and from 2010 to 2022. The Akali stalwart was given Padma Bhushan in 2019, but he then announced that he would return it in solidarity with farmers who were on protest against the now-repealed three farm laws. Born on April 9, 1936, in Ubhawal village of Sangrur district, Dhindsa's political journey began as a student leader at Government Ranbir College. After completing his graduation, Dhindsa was elected the 'sarpanch' of his village. In 1972, he became an MLA from the Dhanaula Assembly seat, contesting as an Independent. Later, he became an MLA from Sunam and Sangrur assembly constituencies. After Akali patriarch Parkash Singh Badal, Dhindsa was the senior-most leader in the Shiromani Akali Dal Dhindsa was expelled twice from the party — first in February 2020 and then in August 2024 after he raised questions about party president Sukhbir Singh Badal. His son Parminder Singh Dhindsa, who was the Finance Minister from 2012 to 2017, was also expelled twice from the party. Sukhdev Dhindsa was critical of the party after its poor performance in the 2017 Assembly Polls. In 2018, he resigned from all positions in the party, alleging that the 'taksali' (old guard) leaders were being sidelined in the party. He raised a banner of revolt against the party leadership in 2020 and he floated own outfit, Shiromani Akali Dal (Democrat). In May 2021, Dhindsa and Ranjit Singh Brahmpura, also expelled from the SAD, floated a new political outfit, Shiromani Akali Dal (Sanyukt). Dhindsa became the president of the party, and Brahmpura its patron. SAD (Sanyuktt) fought the 2022 Punjab Assembly Polls in alliance with the BJP. In March 2024, a few months before the Lok Sabha polls, Dhindsa merged the party with Sukhbir Badal-led Shiromani Akali Dal. At that time, Dhindsa said, "There was an overwhelming feeling among our leaders and workers to merge with the SAD to effect unity in the Panth." The talks of reunion commenced in December 2023, when Badal sought an apology for the sacrilege incidents that took place during the Akali regime in 2015. However, in August 2024, the SAD again expelled Dhindsa, this time from the primary membership, for allegedly indulging in "anti-party" activities. The party also expelled other rebel leaders, who included former MP Prem Singh Chandumajra, ex-Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee chief Bibi Jagir Kaur, and Parminder Singh Dhindsa. The rebel leaders launched a 'Shiromani Akali Dal Sudhar Lehar' aimed to "strengthen and uplift" the 103-year-old party. Dhindsa also underwent religious punishment after the Sikh clergy at the Akal Takht on December 2, 2024, pronounced 'tankhah' (religious punishment) for Sukhbir Badal and other Akali leaders. The religious punishment was pronounced for the "mistakes" committed by the Shiromani Akali Dal and its government in Punjab from 2007 to 2017. Political leaders express grief Political leaders across parties condoled the death of Dhindsa, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi calling him a 'towering statesman with great wisdom and an unwavering commitment to public service'. Other leaders who condoled Dhindsa's demise included Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal, BJP leader and former CM Capt Amarinder Singh and Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa. In his condolence message, Mr. Mann expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the senior Akali leader, acknowledging his relentless efforts for the welfare of the people. Extending his heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family, the Chief Minister prayed to the God to give eternal peace to the departed soul and strength to family members for bearing this irreparable loss. Shiromani Akali Dal president Badal, while paying his tributes, said, 'My heart is deeply saddened by the passing away of Sardar Sukhdev Singh Ji Dhindsa Sahab'. In a post on X in Punjabi, Mr. Badal said Dhindsa, while being part of the SAD, served Punjab and the community for a long time which will always be remembered. Capt Singh said he was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, 'a dignified leader who served Punjab with integrity and dedication'. 'My heartfelt condolences to his family and supporters. May Waheguru grant peace to his soul,' Capt. Amarinder posted on X. Congress leader Bajwa, who is Leader of the Opposition in Punjab Assembly, described Dhindsa as a 'towering figure' in Punjab politics. 'A towering figure in Punjab politics, Dhindsa dedicated over six decades to public service. His legacy will be remembered with deep respect. May he rest in peace,' Mr. Bajwa posted on X. PM Modi said that Dhindsa's death is a major loss to the nation. 'He always had a grassroots level connect with Punjab, its people and culture. He championed issues like rural development, social justice and all-round growth. He always worked to make our social fabric even stronger,' the Prime Minister said in a post on X. Former Punjab minister Manpreet Singh Badal also condoled the demise of Dhindsa, whom he described as a grassroot leader who carried Punjab in his heart. 'Deeply saddened by the passing of S. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa Ji,' Mr. Manpreet Badal posted on X. 'I had the privilege of beginning my political journey under his guidance. His quiet wisdom and unwavering commitment continue to inspire me. His memory will live on in the fight for justice. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones,' he said. Punjab Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring said Dhindsa contributed immensely and positively to the state and national politics. 'My profound and heartfelt condolences over the sad demise of Sardar Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa Sahab. We have lost a great son of the soil who served Punjab for over six decades.' 'He served as the Union Minister besides contributing immensely and positively to the state and national politics. He was probably among the last great icons of the state who were witness to the eventful history of Punjab. Vacuum created by his demise will be too difficult to be filled,' Mr. Warring said in a post on X. BJP's national general secretary Tarun Chugh said Dhindsa was a visionary leader, an experienced parliamentarian and a person who lived a life dedicated to public service.
NDTV
5 days ago
- Politics
- NDTV
Veteran Akali Leader Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa Dies At 89
Chandigarh: Veteran Akali leader and former Union minister Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa died Wednesday evening following age-related health issues at a private hospital in Mohali. He was 89. He is survived by his wife, a son and two daughters. According to a statement by the hospital, Dhindsa was admitted on Tuesday in a critical condition. He was suffering from severe pneumonia and cardiac complications, compounded by age-related health issues. "Despite the best efforts of the multidisciplinary medical team, he passed away at approximately 5:05 PM today due to cardiac arrhythmia and cardiac arrest," it said. Dhindsa's son Parminder Singh Dhindsa was the finance minister in the erstwhile Akali government. Sukhdev Dhindsa became Shiromani Akali Dal Lok Sabha MP from Sangrur in 2004. He was the Union minister of sports, chemicals and fertilizers in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government. Dhindsa was a Rajya Sabha MP from 1998 to 2004 and from 2010 to 2022. The Akali stalwart was given Padma Bhushan in 2019, but he then announced that he would return it in solidarity with farmers who were on protest against the now-repealed three fam laws. Born on April 9, 1936, in Ubhawal village of Sangrur district, Dhindsa's political journey began as a student leader at Government Ranbir College. After completing his graduation, Dhindsa was elected the 'sarpanch' of his village. In 1972, he became an MLA from the Dhanaula Assembly seat, contesting as an Independent. Later, he became an MLA from Sunam and Sangrur assembly constituencies. After Akali patriarch Parkash Singh Badal, Dhindsa was the senior-most leader in the Shiromani Akali Dal Dhindsa was expelled twice from the party – first in February 2020 and then in August 2024 after he raised questions about party president Sukhbir Singh Badal. His son Parminder Singh Dhindsa, who was the finance minister from 2012 to 2017, was also expelled twice from the party. Sukhdev Dhindsa was critical of the party after its poor performance in the 2017 Assembly Polls. In 2018, he resigned from all positions in the party, alleging that the 'taksali' (old guard) leaders were being sidelined in the party. He raised a banner of revolt against the party leadership in 2020 and he floated own outfit, Shiromani Akali Dal (Democrat). In May 2021, Dhindsa and Ranjit Singh Brahmpura, also expelled from the SAD, floated a new political outfit, Shiromani Akali Dal (Sanyukt). Dhindsa became the president of the party, and Brahmpura its patron. SAD (Sanyuktt) fought the 2022 Punjab Assembly Polls in alliance with the BJP. In March 2024, a few months before the Lok Sabha polls, Dhindsa merged the party with Sukhbir Badal-led Shiromani Akali Dal. At that time, Dhindsa said, "There was an overwhelming feeling among our leaders and workers to merge with the SAD to effect unity in the Panth." The talks of reunion commenced in December 2023, when Badal sought an apology for the sacrilege incidents that took place during the Akali regime in 2015. However, in August 2024, the SAD again expelled Dhindsa, this time from the primary membership, for allegedly indulging in "anti-party" activities. The party also expelled other rebel leaders, who included former MP Prem Singh Chandumajra, ex-Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee chief Bibi Jagir Kaur, and Parminder Singh Dhindsa. The rebel leaders launched a 'Shiromani Akali Dal Sudhar Lehar' aimed to "strengthen and uplift" the 103-year-old party. Dhindsa also underwent religious punishment after the Sikh clergy at the Akal Takht on December 2, 2024, pronounced 'tankhah' (religious punishment) for Sukhbir Badal and other Akali leaders. The religious punishment was pronounced for the "mistakes" committed by the Shiromani Akali Dal and its government in Punjab from 2007 to 2017.
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Business Standard
5 days ago
- Politics
- Business Standard
Veteran Akali leader Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa dies at 89 after illness
Veteran Akali leader and former Union minister Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa died Wednesday evening following age-related health issues at a private hospital in Mohali. He was 89. He is survived by his wife, a son and two daughters. According to a statement by the hospital, Dhindsa was admitted on Tuesday in a critical condition. He was suffering from severe pneumonia and cardiac complications, compounded by age-related health issues. "Despite the best efforts of the multidisciplinary medical team, he passed away at approximately 5:05 PM today due to cardiac arrhythmia and cardiac arrest," it said. Dhindsa's son Parminder Singh Dhindsa was the finance minister in the erstwhile Akali government. Sukhdev Dhindsa became Shiromani Akali Dal Lok Sabha MP from Sangrur in 2004. He was the Union minister of sports, chemicals and fertilizers in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government. Dhindsa was a Rajya Sabha MP from 1998 to 2004 and from 2010 to 2022. The Akali stalwart was given Padma Bhushan in 2019, but he then announced that he would return it in solidarity with farmers who were on protest against the now-repealed three fam laws. Born on April 9, 1936, in Ubhawal village of Sangrur district, Dhindsa's political journey began as a student leader at Government Ranbir College. After completing his graduation, Dhindsa was elected the 'sarpanch' of his village. In 1972, he became an MLA from the Dhanaula Assembly seat, contesting as an Independent. Later, he became an MLA from Sunam and Sangrur assembly constituencies. After Akali patriarch Parkash Singh Badal, Dhindsa was the senior-most leader in the Shiromani Akali Dal Dhindsa was expelled twice from the party first in February 2020 and then in August 2024 after he raised questions about party president Sukhbir Singh Badal. His son Parminder Singh Dhindsa, who was the finance minister from 2012 to 2017, was also expelled twice from the party. Sukhdev Dhindsa was critical of the party after its poor performance in the 2017 Assembly Polls. In 2018, he resigned from all positions in the party, alleging that the 'taksali' (old guard) leaders were being sidelined in the party. He raised a banner of revolt against the party leadership in 2020 and he floated own outfit, Shiromani Akali Dal (Democrat). In May 2021, Dhindsa and Ranjit Singh Brahmpura, also expelled from the SAD, floated a new political outfit, Shiromani Akali Dal (Sanyukt). Dhindsa became the president of the party, and Brahmpura its patron. SAD (Sanyuktt) fought the 2022 Punjab Assembly Polls in alliance with the BJP. In March 2024, a few months before the Lok Sabha polls, Dhindsa merged the party with Sukhbir Badal-led Shiromani Akali Dal. At that time, Dhindsa said, "There was an overwhelming feeling among our leaders and workers to merge with the SAD to effect unity in the Panth." The talks of reunion commenced in December 2023, when Badal sought an apology for the sacrilege incidents that took place during the Akali regime in 2015. However, in August 2024, the SAD again expelled Dhindsa, this time from the primary membership, for allegedly indulging in "anti-party" activities. The party also expelled other rebel leaders, who included former MP Prem Singh Chandumajra, ex-Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee chief Bibi Jagir Kaur, and Parminder Singh Dhindsa. The rebel leaders launched a 'Shiromani Akali Dal Sudhar Lehar' aimed to "strengthen and uplift" the 103-year-old party. Dhindsa also underwent religious punishment after the Sikh clergy at the Akal Takht on December 2, 2024, pronounced 'tankhah' (religious punishment) for Sukhbir Badal and other Akali leaders. The religious punishment was pronounced for the "mistakes" committed by the Shiromani Akali Dal and its government in Punjab from 2007 to 2017. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
News18
6 days ago
- Politics
- News18
Ghar Vaapsi: Smriti Irani's Visit To Amethi Ahead Of Panchayat Polls 'Sets Tone For 2029'
Last Updated: Political analysts described Irani's comeback as 'a strategic move to re-engage with the grassroots, test public sentiment, and reset political equations ahead of 2029 polls.' ' Amethi ki Didi thi, hoon aur rahoongi (I am Amethi's sister and will remain so)" – these words defined former union minister Smriti Irani's return to Amethi, her first visit to the constituency after a long time, following her defeat in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. While the occasion coincided with the birth anniversary of Rani Ahilyabai Holkar, the political symbolism of her visit extended far beyond the commemorative event. Political analysts in Uttar Pradesh described Irani's comeback as 'a strategic move to re-engage with the grassroots, test public sentiment, and reset political equations ahead of the 2029 Lok Sabha polls", especially after her loss on a seat she had once turned into a BJP stronghold. Experts also said that her timely visit served as a morale booster for party workers gearing up for the upcoming panchayat elections and the crucial 2027 Assembly Polls. Addressing a gathering at Rananjay Inter College grounds in Gauriganj, Irani struck an emotional and combative note. 'I am a labourer. What do I have to do with the settlements of the rich?" she declared, reciting verses from Ramdhari Singh Dinkar's iconic poem to underscore her commitment to grassroots politics and laborious public service – ' Main mazdoor hoon, mujhe devon ki basti se kya! Ganitwar dhara par main swarg banaoon…" The Political Weight of Her Visit Political analyst and veteran commentator Sheetla Prasad Mishra sees Irani's return as more than a mere courtesy call. 'Smriti Irani's comeback is not accidental or emotional; it is strategic," said Mishra. 'After her defeat to Kishori Lal Sharma of Congress, many believed she would abandon Amethi like other parachute politicians. But by returning on this symbolic day – May 26, the same day Modi took oath as PM in 2014 – she is reclaiming political legitimacy in the eyes of her supporters," added Mishra. 'Her statement—'Now I live next to your house'—was not casual," said Mishra. He said it was a reassurance that her political presence will persist despite the electoral setback. From 'Guest' to 'Sister' Irani was introduced at the event as a 'guest", but in her speech she redefined her identity. 'My relationship with Amethi is not of blood, but of struggle, sweat, and respect. In 2014, I was given only 22 days to contest here. Even then, the people called me 'Didi'. Eleven years later, they no longer see me as a former MP but as a sister." The crowd responded warmly, suggesting that despite the electoral loss, Irani has retained a significant emotional connect in the constituency. Legacy and Achievements In her address, Irani listed key achievements from her tenure as MP: the AK-203 rifle factory, Coca-Cola bottling plant, a medical college, a Sainik School, and the development of an industrial corridor. She also mentioned that she has donated her MP pension to the National Defence Fund, a gesture to support the families of martyrs. She painted a picture of a 'new Amethi" – transformed from a neglected Congress stronghold into a symbol of development. 'Amethi today is a land of industries and opportunities," she said, emphasising how women-led Self Help Groups and strengthened Panchayati Raj institutions have brought about grassroots change. Criticism Cloaked in Sentiment While her speech was largely conciliatory, she could not hide her disappointment over the election result. Using metaphor, she remarked: 'Sisters build homes, brothers protect them," – a subtle yet loaded statement implying a lack of protective solidarity from her party workers or perhaps the broader electorate. She also reminded the audience that when she first arrived in 2014, the BJP wasn't in power, yet she continued her work. 'We don't calculate gains, we earn virtue," she said, reinforcing her image as a selfless worker. A Litmus Test for 2029 The return of Smriti Irani to Amethi might be seen by some as a routine visit, but the layers beneath suggest a deeper political recalibration. According to Sheetla Mishra, 'This visit could be a litmus test for 2029. If she rebuilds her base and stays in close touch, she might attempt a comeback with a stronger narrative." Irani ended her one-day visit by meeting local BJP workers and reminding them of their foundational values—dedication, discipline, and trust. Her visit also acted as a morale booster for the party cadre, especially ahead of upcoming Panchayati Elections and 2027 State Assembly Polls, added Mishra. Irani Consoles Grieving Family in Jagdishpur Before addressing the public in Gauriganj, Smriti Irani made an emotional and unscheduled stop at a residence in Jagdishpur, where a family was mourning the tragic drowning of three of its members in the Ganga River a day earlier. The moment was heavy with grief as she entered the modest home, surrounded by stunned silence and tearful eyes. Irani sat with the bereaved family, offering quiet condolences and holding the hands of the grieving. The most poignant moment came when the young daughter of one of the deceased saw Irani and burst into tears. The former minister, visibly moved, embraced the girl tightly as she sobbed, offering comfort in silence rather than words. This gesture – raw, humane, and unfiltered – spoke volumes, cutting across political lines. Irani didn't issue any official statement during the visit; she simply listened, comforted, and stood in solidarity with the family in their moment of unimaginable loss. For the locals, this wasn't a politician visiting for optics, it was 'Didi" coming home. This brief but heartfelt stop illustrated the deeply personal connection Irani still holds with segments of the Amethi electorate, reminding everyone that beyond political equations, moments of shared humanity often leave the deepest impact. In an age where electoral losses often mean political exits, Smriti Irani's re-entry into Amethi is an exception. Whether it results in political revival remains to be seen, but for now, she has reasserted her emotional and symbolic claim on the land she once conquered. She left for Delhi via Lucknow by Monday evening, but not before leaving a clear message: that her political journey in Amethi is far from over. tags : amethi smriti irani Location : Lucknow, India, India First Published: May 27, 2025, 13:31 IST News politics Ghar Vaapsi: Smriti Irani's Visit To Amethi Ahead Of Panchayat Polls 'Sets Tone For 2029'
Time of India
06-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Watch: Vijay's fan breaches security for a selfie, actor security guard points gun at him
Continue to video 5 5 Next Stay Playback speed 1x Normal Back 0.25x 0.5x 1x Normal 1.5x 2x 5 5 / Skip Ads by Live Events "I have thrown away the peak of my career and i have thrown away the salary.. I'm here as your VIJAY with a trust on you all.."🔥👏 - #ThalapathyVijay at #TVKVijayMaanaadu 🤝 — Laxmi Kanth (@iammoviebuff007) October 27, 2024 There are actors and then there is Thalapathy Vijay . The Tamil superstar enjoys a crazy fanbase. Now, a video of a fan trying to click a picture with the actor has surfaced online. Here, Vijay is seen getting down from his car and making way towards the Madurai airport.A few seconds into the clip, a man breaches the security and tries to approach Vijay. At this moment, a security guard points a gun at the fan. The incident has triggered a heated debate on X (formerly Twitter).So much so that Vijay had to issue a public apology. Addressing the media at Chennai airport, Vijay has requested fans not to follow his car or convoy.'Don't follow my van or ride two-wheelers without helmets. It scares me. Very soon, I will meet you all in a different situation under the party banner. Please be safe and return home after seeing me,' he Vijay has already declared that he will contest in the 2026 Assembly Polls. He will represent his party, Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK).Last year, at a public rally, Thalapathy Vijay opened up about his journey in the said, 'I have thrown away the peak of my career, and I have thrown away the salary.. I'm here as your VIJAY with a trust in you all.''At the beginning of my cinema career, I was told that my face is not good, I am not a great personality, my style is not good, and even my hair and my walk were not good. They shamed me like this,' he Vijay's last film was The Greatest Of All Time – GOAT. The movie opened to theatres on September 5, 2024. Meenakshi Chaudhary, Prashanth Thyagarajan, Sneha Prasanna, Prabhu Deva and Premgi Amaren were also part of the film.
