Remembering Satyapal Malik: A Political Journey Ending at 79

Satyapal Malik, the former Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, has died at the age of 79 in New Delhi's Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, according to his Personal Secretary, KS Rana. He succumbed to a prolonged illness on Tuesday at 1.10 pm.

Malik held the position of Jammu and Kashmir Governor from August 2018 to October 2019, a critical period marked by the abrogation of Article 370, transforming the state into Union Territories. His entry into politics was influenced by socialist leader Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia, starting in 1965-66. His early influence was seen during his tenure as President of the Meerut College Students' Union.

Throughout his tenure, Malik's political journey included significant affiliations with various parties including the Indian National Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party. Notable roles include his appointment as the Governor of Bihar and later Jammu and Kashmir. His dedication to agriculture policy shaped the BJP's manifesto for the 2014 Lok Sabha elections.

(With inputs from agencies.)