New Delhi/Sangrur, June 9
The President of the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC), Harmeet Kalka, expressed deep condolences today for the passing of former Union Minister Sukhdev Dhindsa, who departed last week. Kalka attended the bhog and antim ardaas ceremonies held at Dhindsa’s native village, Ubhawal, in Sangrur district, Punjab.
Kalka described Dhindsa as a towering figure who served as the Secretary General of Shiromani Akali Dal for over two decades, holding the second-highest position in the party. He was a revered leader among Sikhs and Punjabis both in India and abroad. “He was a multifaceted leader—starting as a village sarpanch, heading the state cooperative bank, winning as an independent MLA, joining Akali Dal, becoming a minister, serving in the Rajya Sabha, and holding a cabinet position in Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s central government,” said Kalka. He also noted Dhindsa’s close association with five-time Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal.
Dhindsa maintained warm relations with leaders of other political parties, particularly the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). “He will be remembered for years as a statesman who advanced a regional party and worked on the principle of consensus,” said Kalka, adding that his contemporaries in politics followed his leadership style and learned much from him.
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Dhindsa was known for his welcoming nature, independent thinking, and remarkable clarity. He consistently guided those who sought his advice or suggestions. According to Kalka, “Dhindsa was a guardian of Akali and Sikh values, always calling a spade a spade and never hesitating to defend the party’s pride and honor.” Kalka extended condolences to Dhindsa’s son, former Finance Minister Parminder Singh Dhindsa, and other family members.
