New Delhi: Former Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satyapal Malik passed away on Tuesday afternoon at the age of 79 after a prolonged illness. He breathed his last at Delhi’s Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, where he had been admitted for treatment.
A Political Career Spanning Six Decades
Satyapal Malik’s political journey began in 1965, heavily influenced by the socialist ideology of freedom fighter and political thinker Ram Manohar Lohia. His early steps into politics reflected a strong commitment to people-centric governance and rural empowerment.
In 1974,Satyapal Malik was elected to the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly from Baghpat on a Bharatiya Kranti Dal ticket. His leadership qualities earned him the position of Chief Whip of the party in the state Assembly, setting the tone for his extensive career in public service.
Key Gubernatorial Roles Across India
Satyapal Malik’s gubernatorial career began in September 2017, when he was appointed as the Governor of Bihar. His tenure in Bihar was marked by administrative diligence and accessibility to common citizens.
In August 2018, he was transferred to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, during one of the most critical periods in its history. It was under his governorship that the central government abrogated Article 370, effectively removing the region’s special constitutional status in August 2019.
Following this historic development, Malik was moved to Goa in 2019, and later appointed as the Governor of Meghalaya. In each role, he maintained a distinctive leadership style—direct, outspoken, and closely engaged with local issues.
Known for Outspoken Views
Even after his gubernatorial assignments, Malik remained in the limelight for his bold and outspoken views on national and state-level policies. He often criticized policies that he believed were against the interest of farmers or common people, positioning himself as a voice of conscience in contemporary Indian politics.
A Life Rooted in Simplicity and Service
Born into a modest family and deeply inspired by social justice movements, Malik’s life was a testament to how values and ideology can guide public service. Despite holding high constitutional offices, he continued to advocate for the rights of farmers, educational reform, and transparent governance.
Nation Mourns the Loss
The news of Satyapal Malik’s demise has triggered a wave of condolences from political leaders, former colleagues, and citizens across the country. Prime Minister, governors, and leaders from across the political spectrum expressed their grief and acknowledged his significant contribution to India’s federal governance.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon, with state honors likely to be accorded in recognition of his national service.
Satyapal Malik’s demise marks the end of an era in Indian public life. From a young socialist inspired by Ram Manohar Lohia to a bold Governor during critical national decisions, his political journey was marked by integrity, courage, and commitment to democratic values.
As India remembers him, his legacy will continue to inspire those who believe in fearless public service and people-first politics.