Former Jammu & Kashmir Governor Satyapal Malik passed away on Tuesday in Delhi at the age of 79 after a prolonged illness. His death has sparked a sense of grief across political circles along with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several opposition leaders paying heartfelt tributes.
Taking to X, PM Modi wrote,
"Saddened by the passing away of Shri Satyapal Malik Ji. My thoughts are with his family and supporters in this hour of grief. Om Shanti.”
Malik had been admitted to the Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital in New Delhi for several weeks and was undergoing treatment in the ICU. He had been battling multiple health issues including diabetic kidney disease, high blood pressure, morbid obesity, and sleep apnea.
In an official statement, the RLM hospital authorities said,
"It is with deep regret that we confirm the demise of Satyapal Malik, who had been receiving intensive care at our facility.”
A Political Career Spanning Decades
Satyapal Malik’s political journey spanned several decades. He served as the governor of Goa, Bihar, Meghalaya and Odisha during his career. Most notably, he was the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir during one of the most crucial moments in its history namely the abrogation of Article 370 and the bifurcation of the state into two Union Territories on August 5, 2019.
Coincidentally, Malik breathed his last on the sixth anniversary of that historic decision.
Malik also had a long stint in active politics. He was a member of both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, representing different political parties over the years. Despite holding top positions, Malik was not afraid to speak his mind even if it meant criticizing his own party or those in power.
He made headlines when he claimed he was offered a bribe to clear files related to major development projects during his tenure in Jammu and Kashmir. He was also vocal about the government's handling of the farmers' protests and issues surrounding the 2019 Pulwama terror attack.
His explosive allegations led to a CBI investigation later filed a chargesheet against him in a case related to the ₹2,200-crore Kiru hydropower project this May.
Respect Across Party Lines
Several political leaders, cutting across party lines, remembered Malik fondly and praised his courage and dedication.
Congress leader Kumari Selja called him a fearless voice who always stood with farmers and ordinary people. “He used to speak the truth without fear. His honesty and commitment toward public welfare will always be remembered,” she said.
Senior Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala also expressed deep sorrow over his passing.
“He always stood with the farmers and had the courage to question the government's decisions even while holding high office,” Surjewala said. “May his soul rest in peace and may his family and supporters find strength during this difficult time.”
Former Haryana CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda also expressed his condolences, remembering Malik as a leader who served with integrity.
Satyapal Malik will be remembered as a leader who never held back from speaking the truth whether in power or outside it. From his crucial role in Kashmir to his sharp critiques on national issues, his voice made headlines and stirred debates across the political spectrum.
