"PM Modi Pays Tribute to Veteran Akali Leader Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa After His Demise"

Former Union Minister and senior Akali leader Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa passed away on May 28, 2025, in Mohali, Punjab, at the age of 89. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has conveyed his profound sadness at his loss. PM Modi praised Dhindsa as a "great statesman" and recognized his important national accomplishments.

A Life Committed to Serving the Public

Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa was born on April 9, 1936, in Ubhawal village, Sangrur district, Punjab. He started his political career in Government Ranbir College, Sangrur, as a student leader. He was chosen to serve as the college's Students' Council's first secretary and then president. He was the youngest Sarpanch in his district and the Chairman of the Sangrur Block Samiti, among other early leadership positions.

Dhindsa served several terms as a member of the Punjab Legislative Assembly, representing districts including Dhanaula, Sunam, and Sangrur, during the course of his multi-decade political career. He oversaw ministries including transportation, sports, tourism, cultural affairs, and civil aviation while serving in a number of ministerial capacities in the Punjab government.

Leadership at the National Level

Dhindsa was a member of parliament in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha at the federal level. Under Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, he was named Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilizers, Youth Affairs and Sports, and Urban Employment and Poverty Alleviation.

He received the 2019 Padma Bhushan in appreciation of his service. In December 2020, though, he gave the prize back in support of the farmers' demonstrations.

Legacy and Political Realignments

Dhindsa underwent major realignments during his political career. He founded the SAD (Sanyukt) after being kicked out of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) in 2020. In 2024, he was named the party's patron and the SAD united with it again.

In Punjab politics, his son Parminder Singh Dhindsa was also involved, holding the position of Finance Minister from 2012 to 2017.

Last Days and Remembrances

Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa died after a protracted illness that included heart problems and severe pneumonia. On May 28, 2025, he passed away at Fortis Hospital in Mohali. The village of Ubhawal, Sangrur, where he was born, will host his funeral.

Political leaders from all walks of life have praised Dhindsa's lasting legacy and dedication to public service. For many years to come, his contributions to Indian politics and Punjab will be recognized.