A Life Dedicated to Public Service Ends in Delhi
Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former Member of Parliament, Vijay Kumar Malhotra, passed away on Tuesday morning at AIIMS, New Delhi. The hospital confirmed his passing through an official statement. He was 93 years old.
A Political Journey Spanning Decades
Malhotra was a stalwart of Indian politics, particularly in the capital. With five terms as an MP and two terms as an MLA, he stood as one of the most enduring faces of the BJP and its predecessor, the Bharatiya Jan Sangh, in Delhi. He also served as the President of the BJP’s Delhi unit, shaping the party’s grassroots presence over many years.
Tributes Pour In from Party and Leaders
The BJP paid heartfelt tribute to Malhotra, highlighting his dedication to simplicity and selfless public service. The party credited him with playing a key role in expanding the reach of the Jan Sangh across Delhi.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed deep sorrow over the veteran leader’s demise. “He was a leader deeply connected to the grassroots, with a profound understanding of people’s concerns. His contribution in Parliament and towards strengthening the BJP in Delhi was remarkable,” the PM said. Offering condolences to Malhotra’s family and admirers, he added a solemn “Om Shanti.”
A Timely Reminder of His Legacy
In an interesting coincidence, Malhotra’s death occurred just one day after the inauguration of the BJP’s permanent office in Delhi at Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg—a project long awaited by party members. The moment seemed to symbolize the end of an era just as a new chapter begins.
Historic Electoral Achievements
One of the most notable moments of Malhotra’s political journey was his 1999 Lok Sabha victory, where he defeated former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh by a significant margin. His influence and popularity were further underscored in the 2004 general elections, where he stood out as the sole BJP victor in Delhi, even as the Congress swept the remaining six parliamentary seats.
The End of an Era in Delhi Politics
Vijay Kumar Malhotra’s name will remain etched in Delhi’s political history. For over forty years, he remained at the forefront of political change, party-building, and public service. His enduring commitment to principled politics and grassroot activism leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
