Chandigarh, 28 May 2025 – Veteran Shiromani Akali Dal leader and former Union Minister Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa passed away on Wednesday at Fortis Hospital, Mohali, at the age of 89. He had been battling prolonged health issues and succumbed around 5 pm, leaving a void in Punjab’s political and religious landscape.
Born on April 9, 1936, Dhindsa was a towering figure in Punjab politics and a former Rajya Sabha MP. Known for his principled leadership and simplicity, he was the patron of the Shiromani Akali Dal and a staunch advocate of Sikh causes throughout his career.
He had recently undertaken religious penance (tankhah) as directed by the Akal Takht, serving at Gurdwara Fatehgarh Sahib and Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, reflecting his deep-rooted spiritual values.
Dhindsa served as Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers (2004–2010), during which he worked extensively on issues affecting Punjab and the Sikh community. Leaders across party lines mourned his passing. Congress leader Raja Brar called him a “true son of Punjab” who “served the state and nation for six decades.”
His son, Parminder Singh Dhindsa, has been a close companion in both political and religious endeavours in recent years.
Dhindsa’s legacy is marked by his unwavering commitment to Punjab’s interests, his role in national politics, and his dedication to Sikh values. His contributions will be remembered for generations.
